Fireworks Safety Guide: The Complete UK Firework Code

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Over 27 years of handling fireworks, I've seen the same safety mistakes happen again and again. They're usually not from people being reckless — they're from not knowing the rules, the distances, or what to do when something goes wrong. This guide covers everything you need to know to set off fireworks safely in the UK, straight from someone who's been doing this since 1999.

The 5 key rules of the UK Firework Code (quick answer)

If you remember nothing else, remember these five rules:

1. Follow safety distances religiously. F1 fireworks need 1 metre, F2 need 8 metres, F3 need 25 metres. Don't wing it.

2. Always read the instructions. Every firework is different. The label tells you the safety distance, firing method, and what to expect.

3. Never go back to a firework that hasn't fired. Wait 15 minutes minimum, then approach very carefully — or don't approach it at all.

4. Protect yourself and others. Wear proper clothing (no loose sleeves), keep children and pets at a safe distance, and never point fireworks at people.

We have a dedicated fireworks and pets guide with vet-backed advice on keeping dogs, cats and small animals safe during firework season.

5. Store fireworks safely and legally. Cool, dry place. Never in damp conditions. Never with chemicals or materials that can ignite.

UK firework injury statistics: why this matters

This isn't abstract. According to RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents), burns and scalds are the most common firework injuries, and they peak sharply in October and November every year. During Bonfire Night weekend alone, the NHS burns advice page gets visited over 8,200 times — roughly once every 21 seconds.

Burns to hands and faces are the most common. Eye injuries from sparks and debris come second. Children and teenagers aged 10-17 are disproportionately affected, often from sparklers that people treat as harmless. They're not.

In my time selling fireworks, I've had customers come back and tell me about burns that took months to heal, scars that never faded, and displays that ended with an ambulance in the garden. Every one of those was preventable.

The official UK Firework Code (complete list)

This is the full firework code you need to follow. It's not just a suggestion — it's the legal standard in the UK.

• You must be at least 18 years old to buy or use fireworks (with some exceptions for certain types).
• Follow the safety distances marked on every firework.
• Read and follow the instructions on the packaging before use.
• Never light fireworks in your hand.
• Light fireworks from a safe distance using a taper or fuse lighter, never a match.
• Never point fireworks at people, animals, buildings, vehicles, or combustible materials.
• Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby.
• Never attempt to relight a firework that has failed to ignite.
• Wait at least 15 minutes after a misfire before approaching the firework — and even then, assume it could go off.
• Don't let children handle fireworks unsupervised.
• Don't mix fireworks with alcohol or drugs.
• Let your neighbours know before setting off fireworks. This isn't a legal requirement, but it's good practice and prevents complaints.
• Set off fireworks at appropriate times (typically 7am to 11pm on most nights, with extended hours on designated celebrations).
• Dispose of used fireworks safely — don't burn them, soak them in water for at least 24 hours before disposal.
• Never store fireworks with other combustible materials.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from damp conditions.

Understanding safety distances

The safety distance is the most important number on a firework's packaging. Here's what each classification means:

F1 fireworks (1 metre safety distance)

F1s are the lowest-energy fireworks — indoor sparklers, small fountains, novelty items. A 1 metre distance is still enough that if something goes wrong, people won't be seriously hurt. But that doesn't mean you ignore it. I've seen burns from "safe" sparklers because someone was holding them too close or waving them around carelessly.

F2 fireworks (8 metre safety distance)

F2s are your standard garden fireworks — rockets, multi-shot batteries, wheels, most Roman candles. Eight metres is roughly the width of a large garden. This is where most of your display fireworks will fall. You need a clear, open space with nothing and nobody in that radius.

F3 fireworks (25 metre safety distance)

F3s are the big displays — large Roman candles, big compound fireworks, high-power batteries. Twenty-five metres is serious distance. That's not a back garden; that's a field or a large open space. If you're setting off F3s, you need proper planning and you should notify the council.

Setting up your display area safely

Before you light a single firework, your space needs to be ready.

Clear the area

Walk your safety zone. Check for trees with low branches (shells can catch them), fences, hedges, garden structures, or anything flammable within the safety distance. Remove garden furniture, toys, and anything combustible. Wet down the ground if it's dry grass — fireworks can cause small fires.

Lighting position

You need a stable, level position to light fireworks from. I use a sturdy garden table — nothing that wobbles. You light from here and then move away immediately. Don't try to light a firework and run; light it properly and then walk away at a normal pace.

Observation point

Your audience should be well behind the safety distance. For F2s, that's 8 metres minimum. Everyone — children, adults, pets — stays behind this line. No exceptions.

Emergency equipment

Keep a bucket of water nearby. Keep a fire extinguisher accessible. If you're using garden furniture as a launch platform, keep it clear of debris after each firework. If a firework lands somewhere it shouldn't, water is your first response.

What to wear: personal safety clothing

This is practical stuff that people often overlook.

Avoid loose clothing

Don't wear loose sleeves, baggy shirts, or anything that flutters. A spark from a firework can catch fabric. Wear fitted clothing or long sleeves that are tucked in. Avoid synthetic fabrics that melt easily — cotton or wool is better.

Protect your face and eyes

Never lean over a firework to light it. Always light from the side and step away. If you wear glasses, keep them on — a spark in your eye is a serious injury. Some people wear safety glasses; that's not overkill.

Footwear

Wear closed shoes. Sandals and open-toed shoes leave your feet vulnerable to sparks and hot debris.

Keep hands clear

Your hands should never be near a firework when it's lit. Use a taper, a fuse lighter, or a lighting stick. Some people use long tapers held in a kitchen fork — whatever works, as long as your hands are nowhere near the fuse when it ignites.

Children and fireworks: the reality

Children and fireworks need serious boundaries. The legal age for buying fireworks is 18, and there's a good reason.

Supervision

If children are present, they must be actively supervised and kept well behind the safety distance. Young children (under 8) shouldn't be in the display area at all. Older children can watch from a safe distance, but they should never touch fireworks or step into the safety zone.

Sparkler safety (the real story)

Sparklers are often given to children as "safe" fireworks. The truth: sparklers burn at around 1,500°C. That's hot enough to cause serious burns instantly. I've seen children with second and third-degree burns from sparklers. If children are using sparklers, they need adult supervision, proper spacing (never holding two at once), and they need to understand that the stick is only part of the danger — the sparks travel and can burn nearby skin and clothing.

For very young children, I'd say avoid sparklers altogether. For older children (10+) who understand the danger, they can use sparklers under close adult supervision, wearing long sleeves and keeping a distance from other people.

Bonfire safety

Fireworks and bonfires go together, especially on 5 November. But a bonfire brings its own risks, and I've heard plenty of stories about displays going wrong because nobody thought through the bonfire side of things.

Building your bonfire

Build the bonfire well away from fences, buildings, sheds, and overhanging trees. The recommended minimum distance between a bonfire and any structure is 18 metres, though larger bonfires need more room. Keep the bonfire separate from your firework display area — they shouldn't share the same space.

Before lighting, always check the bonfire for hedgehogs and other animals that may have crawled in for shelter. This is a genuine problem every autumn. Dismantle and rebuild it on the day if it's been standing for more than a day or two.

Lighting a bonfire safely

Use domestic firelighters. Never use petrol, paraffin, or any accelerant — this is how serious burns happen. Light it from one side with the wind behind you, and stand well back once it takes.

Keep children at a safe distance from the bonfire itself, not just from the fireworks. A long-handled sparkler near a bonfire is a recipe for singed clothing or worse.

Managing the bonfire during your display

Don't set off fireworks near an active bonfire. Sparks from the fire can interfere with fuses, and heat from the bonfire can cause unexpected ignition. The two need a good distance between them.

Once the bonfire is dying down, don't throw used firework tubes onto it. Firework debris can contain chemicals that produce toxic fumes when burned. Dispose of fireworks separately by soaking in water.

Sky lanterns and Chinese lanterns: why we don't recommend them

Sky lanterns look pretty going up. The problem is what happens when they come down, which you've got zero control over. They've started barn fires, set crops alight, and damaged property across the UK.

Several local authorities have banned them outright. The Chief Fire Officers Association wants a nationwide ban. Livestock have been injured after eating landed lanterns, and the wire frames wreck farm machinery.

If you want something in the sky, use fireworks. You get a better spectacle and you actually know where it's going to end up.

Pet safety on fireworks night

This is often forgotten, and it's one of the biggest issues I hear about from customers.

Fireworks cause real distress in many animals. Their hearing is far more sensitive than ours, and they don't understand what's happening. During fireworks night, keep your pets indoors with the windows closed. Close the curtains, because flashing lights can frighten animals just as much as the noise. Leave a light on so sudden darkness doesn't add to the stress. Some pets do better with background music or white noise on.

Make sure your pet is wearing identification (microchip and collar) in case they panic and bolt. Have your vet's emergency number to hand. And if your pet shows severe distress, contact a vet. They can advise on temporary calming measures.

If you're the one setting off fireworks, letting your neighbours know in advance means they can prepare their pets too. That's basic courtesy, and it prevents a lot of bad feeling.

Neighbours and your community

Fireworks are loud. Not everyone appreciates them. Worth reading this section even if you think it doesn't apply to you.

Notifying neighbours (not legally required, but smart)

There's no legal obligation to tell your neighbours before setting off fireworks, as long as you're on your own land and within the legal hours. But not telling them is asking for complaints. A note through the letterbox, a knock on the door, or a message in a neighbourhood group chat — whatever suits your street. The point is that people shouldn't be caught off guard.

Elderly and vulnerable neighbours

Loud, unexpected bangs can be genuinely distressing for elderly people, those with PTSD, and people with certain neurological conditions. If you know any of your neighbours fall into those categories, a heads-up gives them time to prepare. Close windows, put the telly up, or just know it'll be over by a certain time. That's all most people need.

Keeping the peace

Stick to reasonable hours. The legal curfew is 11pm on most nights (midnight on 5 November, 1am on New Year's Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year). But legal doesn't always mean considerate — if you're in a residential area with young families or elderly neighbours, wrapping up earlier goes a long way.

If a neighbour complains, listen. You're not doing anything wrong if you're within the law, but a bit of goodwill keeps things friendly. Offer to let them know the time of your next display so they can prepare.

What to do if a firework misfires

This happens more often than people realise, and knowing the right response is critical.

The 15-minute rule

If a firework doesn't go off, wait a minimum of 15 minutes. Don't approach it. Don't assume it's a dud. In that time, if it's going to go off, it probably will. Misfires happen for many reasons — a faulty fuse, moisture, incomplete ignition — and sometimes they fire with a delay.

After 15 minutes: careful approach

Only the person who lit the firework should approach it, and they should do so very carefully. Assume it could still fire. Approach from the side (not directly over it), not from the direction the shell would travel. If you're comfortable doing this, approach and very carefully tip it over with a stick. If it still doesn't respond, leave it where it is and dispose of it later — soak it in water for 24 hours and then dispose of it as waste.

First aid for firework injuries

Burns and eye injuries are the most common firework injuries.

Burns

For minor burns (small area, first-degree): Cool the area with running water for at least 10-15 minutes. Once cooled, apply a clean, dry cloth. Don't use ice directly on skin. Don't apply creams or ointments. If the burn is larger, blistered, or covers more than a small area, it's a serious burn — call 999.

For serious burns, call 999 immediately. While waiting for the ambulance, cool the area with cool (not cold) water and cover it with a clean, dry cloth. Don't remove stuck clothing.

Eye injuries

If a spark has entered the eye, don't rub it. Flush the eye gently with clean water for several minutes. If the eye is painful, vision is affected, or there's visible damage, get to an emergency room or call 111. Eye injuries are not something to treat at home.

When to call 999

Serious burns, burns on hands, face, or genitals, burns larger than a postage stamp, eye injuries, or any injury that affects breathing or consciousness — call 999. Don't wait.

Legal requirements and fines

Know the law. It's not complicated, but it matters.

• Age: You must be 18+ to buy or use fireworks (exceptions: sparklers and certain novelties with lower age limits).
• Curfew times: Fireworks can be set off from 7am to 11pm most nights. On Bonfire Night the curfew extends to midnight. On New Year's Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year, you can use fireworks until 1am. The council may have stricter local rules.
• Courtesy: There's no legal obligation to notify neighbours, but it's strongly recommended. A quick heads-up prevents complaints and lets people with pets or anxiety prepare.
• Fines: Breaching fireworks regulations can result in fines up to £5,000 or even imprisonment for serious breaches (particularly around safety distances or age restrictions).

Check your local council's guidance before your display — some areas have additional restrictions, and parks or public spaces often have their own rules. For a full breakdown of the law, see our UK Fireworks Law 2026 guide.

Storing fireworks safely

How you store fireworks matters almost as much as how you use them.

Fireworks must be stored in a cool, dry place. Not the garage if it gets damp. Not the shed if moisture creeps in. The loft is usually good, the basement is often too damp. A bedroom closet, away from direct heat sources, works well. Keep them in their original packaging — that packaging is there for a reason.

Never store fireworks near other chemicals, solvents, or anything flammable. Never store them with a heat source nearby. Never store them in a car, a caravan, or anywhere they'll be exposed to temperature changes or vibration.

For detailed guidance on storage, read our full fireworks storage guide.

Disposal and cleanup

After your display, you need to dispose of used fireworks properly.

Collect all used fireworks — cardboard tubes, wires, everything. Soak them in water for at least 24 hours. This ensures any remaining fuses are properly dampened and safe. After soaking, they can go in regular household waste.

Don't burn used fireworks. Don't throw them in the bin still hot. Don't leave them lying around hoping they'll dry out.

If you have unused fireworks that you're not going to use, treat them the same way — soak them and dispose of them as household waste. Never keep old fireworks "just in case."

For a complete guide on disposal, see our fireworks disposal guide.

Understanding firework types and their risks

Different fireworks have different characteristics and risks. Understanding what you're working with helps you plan a safer display.

Rockets and Roman candles: These fire upwards and travel. They need a clear sky above and well-clear ground around them. A rocket that hits a branch or power line can break apart unpredictably.

Fountains and wheels: These are stationary but create sparks over a wide area. Position them so sparks fall onto cleared ground, not towards people or structures.

Batteries (multi-shot): These are multiple fireworks in one unit, firing in sequence. Point them directly away from your audience. The angle matters — even a slight tilt changes where the shots land.

Sparklers: Small but hot. Each one needs its own space, and users need to be aware that sparks travel.

Your firework safety checklist (printable)

Use this checklist before every display:

Before the display:

• ☐ Check weather conditions — avoid high winds
• ☐ Walk the display area and clear flammable materials
• ☐ Set up a clear observation point behind the safety distance
• ☐ Prepare a bucket of water and/or fire extinguisher
• ☐ Have a first-aid kit accessible
• ☐ Know the location of the nearest A&E
• ☐ Notify neighbours of the time and expected duration
• ☐ Check all fireworks are within their use-by date
• ☐ Read the instructions on every firework you plan to use
• ☐ Ensure children and pets are supervised and behind the safety line
• ☐ Wear appropriate clothing (no loose sleeves, closed shoes)

During the display:

• ☐ Light one firework at a time
• ☐ Use a taper or fuse lighter — never a match
• ☐ Walk away after lighting — don't run
• ☐ Keep the firework box closed between uses
• ☐ Never return to a firework that hasn't ignited

After the display:

• ☐ Wait 15 minutes before approaching any misfires
• ☐ Collect all spent fireworks and debris
• ☐ Soak everything in water for 24 hours
• ☐ Dispose of soaked fireworks as household waste
• ☐ Check the area for any smouldering material

Related resources

For more detailed information on specific topics, check out these guides:

• UK Fireworks Law 2026: What You Need to Know
• Can You Set Off Fireworks in Your Back Garden?
• Where Are the Safest Places to Store Fireworks in Your Home?
• How Can I Dispose of Unused Fireworks Safely?
• How to Plan a Fireworks Display at Home
• Garden Fireworks Collection
• Sparklers Collection

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if a firework fails to light?

Leave it alone for at least 15 minutes. Don't assume it's a dud. After 15 minutes, you can carefully approach it and tip it over with a stick. If nothing happens, soak it in water for 24 hours and dispose of it as household waste. Never try to relight it.

Are sparklers safe for children?

Sparklers are legal for supervised use, but they're not "safe" — they burn at 1,500°C. Only children aged 10+ should use them, only under direct adult supervision, and only with proper precautions (long sleeves, spacing from others, away from flammable materials). For younger children, I'd recommend avoiding them altogether.

How far away should people be from fireworks?

The legal safety distance depends on the firework's classification (F1: 1m, F2: 8m, F3: 25m). Always follow the distance marked on the packaging. When in doubt, stand further back.

Can I set off fireworks in my garden?

You can set off most garden fireworks (F1 and F2) in your garden if you have enough space and can maintain the required safety distances. You must notify neighbours, follow curfew times, and have a clear, open area. Check your local council's rules — some areas have additional restrictions. Read our detailed guide on this topic.

What's the legal age to buy fireworks in the UK?

You must be 18 years old to buy fireworks (with exceptions for certain types like sparklers and novelties, which may have lower age limits). Anyone selling fireworks to under-18s is breaking the law.

When can I set off fireworks legally?

Fireworks can be set off from 7am to 11pm on most days. On Bonfire Night (5 November), the curfew extends to midnight. On New Year's Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year, you can use fireworks until 1am. Check your local council's rules — they may be stricter. Always notify neighbours in advance.

What do I do if someone gets burned by a firework?

For minor burns, cool with running water for 10-15 minutes and apply a clean, dry cloth. For serious burns (large area, blisters, deep burns), call 999 immediately. While waiting, cool the area with cool water and cover with clean cloth. Never apply ice directly or remove stuck clothing.

How should I store fireworks at home?

Store in a cool, dry place (loft, bedroom closet, not garage if damp). Keep in original packaging, away from heat sources and other flammable materials. Never store in a car or caravan. Never store with chemicals or solvents. See our detailed storage guide.

What should I do with left-over fireworks?

Soak them in water for at least 24 hours to ensure they're safe, then dispose of them as household waste. Never keep old fireworks, never burn them, and never try to use them years later. See our disposal guide.

What if a firework lands in my neighbour's garden?

Stop the display immediately. Go retrieve it (carefully — it may still be hot), and check that nothing has caught fire. Apologise and check for damage. If there's any fire risk or damage, call the fire service on 999. After, discuss the issue with your neighbour and adjust your display setup.

Are there any restrictions on fireworks in apartment buildings?

Most apartments and flats don't have the space needed for safe fireworks displays. Your lease or building rules will likely prohibit them. The safety distances required for F2 fireworks (8 metres) are usually impossible in a residential apartment block. If you're in a flat, you'll need to find a suitable open space nearby — a friend's garden, a local field, or any area where you can maintain proper safety distances. You can still put on a great show with garden fireworks — you just need the right space to do it safely.

Is it safe to have a bonfire and fireworks at the same time?

Yes, but keep them well separated. The bonfire should be at least 18 metres from any building, and your firework display area needs its own separate space away from the bonfire. Never throw used fireworks onto a bonfire — the chemicals can produce toxic fumes. Light the bonfire with domestic firelighters only, never petrol or paraffin.

Are sky lanterns safe to use?

We don't recommend sky lanterns. Once released, you have no control over where they land, and they've caused barn fires, crop damage, and livestock injuries across the UK. Several councils have banned them entirely, and the Chief Fire Officers Association has called for a nationwide ban. Fireworks give you the same spectacle with far more control.

Final thoughts

Fireworks are brilliant. They've been part of celebrations for centuries, and there's a reason — they create something magical. But they deserve respect. Every injury I've seen over 27 years came from someone cutting a corner, assuming it wouldn't happen to them, or not understanding the risks.

Follow the code. Know the distances. Read the instructions. Respect the danger. And you'll have a brilliant display with no injuries, no fires, and no regrets. That's how fireworks should be.

If you're looking for fireworks for your display, explore our garden fireworks collection and sparklers — everything is safety-tested and comes with clear instructions. And if you want help planning your display, our home display guide walks you through every step.

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