How to Survive Bonfire Night

Remember, remember, the 5th of November, gunpowder, treason and plot. The rhyme has been seared into the minds of primary school children for decades. For some it’s a great night out to watch the fireworks with family, while for others it’s a chance to burn the hideous sofa that never made it to the tip.

Despite your personal feelings towards the festivities, Guy Fawkes Night is hard to ignore. Whether you plan on getting stuck in or waiting it out under a warm blanket, we’ve got some top tips to keep you safe and get you through.

Participating:

  • Build bonfires in a safe location and away from danger; remember, never light it with a flammable liquid
  • Keep well back from open fires and ensure children are supervised at all times
  • Always pour water on the embers before leaving the bonfire
  • Never throw a spent firework on a bon fire
  • Always light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
  • Plunge finished sparklers hot end down into a bucket of water as soon as they have burnt out as they can stay hot for a long time
  • Don’t give sparklers to children under five

Furry friends:

  • Close all windows and curtains so that the sounds of the explosions are reduced
  • Turn on the TV or some music to distract from the noise
  • If your pet is hiding under furniture or in a corner, leave them there – trying to prise them out will only cause more stress
  • Plan ahead and take your dog for a big walk in the morning and a short one in the evening to avoid having to be out when the fireworks start

Staying in:

  • If you suffer from a heart problem, asthma or bronchitis, it might be a better idea to enjoy the fireworks from inside
  • Turn off your lights inside to view fireworks better
  • Indulge in traditional Bonfire food including toffee apples, hot pork/beef sandwiches and pie and peas
  • It’s a given, but never light sparklers or fireworks in the house – always be at least 18 meters away
  • Don’t leave candles burning when you turn in for the night

Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to having a fun and safe Bon Fire evening.

For even more tips on staying safe this Bonfire night, visit http://www.bonfire-night-safety.co.uk/