I love fireworks, I always have. I enjoy going to the big displays, although I haven't been in a few years as I always seem to be working the nights they are on.I also love an at home display with family and friends and a nice warm cuppa!
The advantages of an at home display (other than a decent coffee!) are not having to mess about getting to the display area, no parking wars, and you can watch from inside if you can't stand the cold.
The disadvantages are the extortionate prices of fireworks these days, and of course the safety aspect.
I firmly believe you can do an at home display safely with a bit of planning and some common sense!
Here are my top tips on how to have a safe at home firework display:
1. Firstly, avoid the term firework party when inviting people. I know it might sound more fun than display, but it also sounds like a boozy event. The last thing you want around fireworks is people who have had a drink or two too many.
If you want to have drinks, try a hot cider or mulled wine for through the fireworks, and serve the other drinks after the display.
Perhaps compromise, and invite people to a display with an after party.
2. Make sure the person responsible for setting up and lighting the fireworks knows what they are doing and follows the instructions.
3. Always point the fireworks away from the area where people will be standing or sitting.
4. Make sure children are watched closely so they don't wander off into any dangerous areas. Cordon them off if possible.
5. Ensure the fireworks are stored safely prior to the event. Somewhere cool, with no risk of naked flames or sparks and out of the reach of children. Ideally, not in your home!
6. Make sure children are wearing gloves when holding sparklers and that they are supervised by an adult.
7. Have a fire extinguisher/fire blanket close to hand. It's unlikely you will need it if the fireworks are set off properly, but it's better safe than sorry! Also, have a sand bucket or a bucket of water to put used up fireworks into just to be certain they are out.
8. Don't skimp on quality! If you can't afford legitimate, tested fireworks from a reputable retailer, don't buy them! If the deal sounds too good too be true, chances are it is, and the fireworks may not be up to safety standards!
9. Never hold a firework in your hands to light it (except sparklers).
10. if a firework doesn't go off, don't bend over it in case it is just a bit slow. Give it a minute or two and when you are sure it is not going to work, throw some water over it from a distance before approaching it.
Remember, whether you are having a display or not, the noise of the fireworks will scare pets.
-Keep them indoors, and have some background noise in the room with them.
-Don't leave them alone where possible.
-Bring outdoor pets inside.
Have fun and be safe!
Do you go to a display or do your own or do you think fireworks are over rated? Let me know in the comments, and don't forget to share any of your safety tips! :)
