Fireworks Safety Advice
Fireworks Safety Guide
Fireworks are a thrilling part of many British celebrations, but safety must always come first. Whether you're planning a garden fireworks display or browsing fireworks for sale, these essential safety tips will help ensure your night goes off without a hitch.
Understanding Firework Categories in the UK
All consumer fireworks sold by Fireworks Shop Ltd comply with UK CE Regulation 20806, which is clearly marked on each product. Here’s a quick overview of the categories available to the general public.
F1 – Indoor Fireworks
Low-risk, close proximity items
Examples include party poppers, ice fountains, and sparklers
F2 – Garden Fireworks
Minimum 8 metre safety distance
Maximum 500g NEC per item
F2 compound fireworks may be factory-fused and mounted on a board, but must not exceed 2000g NEC total
Suitable for most garden displays – view our garden fireworks for more options
F3 Display Fireworks
Minimum 15 metre safety distance under CE Regulation 20806
For safety and a better visual experience, we strongly recommend 25 metres or more
Maximum 1000g NEC per item
F3 compound cakes may total up to 4000g NEC
Always follow the safety distance printed on the label
Before purchasing, measure your space and decide if F2 or F3 fireworks are right for your display.
Preparation Is Essential
A well-prepared site helps reduce risk and improves the experience for everyone.
Site Considerations
Confirm you have the correct safety distance
Check for obstacles like overhanging trees, sheds, fencing, or power lines
Use straight-up firing fireworks if your garden has side obstructions
Avoid using fan-shaped fireworks in narrow or restricted areas
Protective Equipment (PPE)
The person lighting the fireworks must:
Be completely free from alcohol and drugs
Wear safety gloves, goggles, and a hard hat
Use overalls or non-flammable clothing
Wear strong, closed-toe boots
Have a head torch or handheld torch for visibility
Read the Label Thoroughly
Every firework is different. Always read the label before use to check:
NEC (powder weight)
Category (F2 or F3)
Minimum safety distance
Firing style (fan or straight)
Setup guidance (e.g. direction indicators, ‘face this way’ instructions)
Understanding this information will help you plan and position your display correctly. Never leave reading the labels until the last minute.
Securing Fireworks Correctly
Unsecured fireworks can fall over due to recoil. Secure them properly to avoid serious risk.
Recommended Securing Methods
Use wooden stakes or steel pins on both sides of the firework
Wrap with gaffer tape securely (but avoid covering the fuse)
Place hardboard underneath on soft ground
Use sandbags or heavy blocks on hard surfaces
Bury the base in a tub of sand if needed
For detailed setup demonstrations, watch our safety videos on YouTube where Wayne explains staking, waterproofing, and securing techniques.
Rocket Firework Safety
Use the provided launch tube or a 22mm plastic pipe
Always angle the tube away from the audience
Rockets tend to fly into the wind – plan your display accordingly
Never fire rockets with damaged or broken sticks
Place the rocket gently into the tube – never force or drop it
Lighting Fireworks
Locate the orange "Start Fuse" label and pull it down
Expose the green visco fuse underneath
Light using a portfire at arm’s length
Step back immediately after ignition
Never lean over or reach across a firework when lighting
Dealing With Misfires
If a firework fails to go off, do not return to it
Wait at least 15 minutes before approaching
Some fireworks include a reserve fuse for second attempts – only use it after waiting
If a firework only partially fires, leave it overnight, soak it in water for 48 hours, then contact your local council for safe disposal instructions
Sparkler Safety
Always supervise children when using sparklers
Have a bucket of water ready to place spent sparklers into
Never relight or reuse sparklers
Once extinguished, dispose of carefully
Be Considerate to Neighbours
Give your neighbours advance notice of your display, especially if they have pets, small children, or sensory concerns. A bit of courtesy can go a long way – or invite them to enjoy the show.
Legal Firing Times in the UK
Fireworks can be used throughout the year, but only during permitted hours:
Most days: not after 11pm
Bonfire Night: up to midnight
New Year’s Eve, Diwali, Chinese New Year: up to 1am
Never use fireworks before 7am
Always follow the law and respect your surroundings.
Final Safety Checklist
Fireworks secured properly (stakes, tape, sandbags)
Labels read and understood
PPE worn by firing operator
Correct safety distances confirmed
Bucket of water ready for emergencies
Neighbours notified
Reserve fuse procedure known
Buy Fireworks Online from a Trusted UK Supplier
Looking to buy fireworks online for your next celebration? Fireworks Shop Ltd offers a wide range of fireworks for sale including garden fireworks, compound cakes, rockets, and sparklers — all tested and compliant with CE Regulation 20806.
Order now for fast UK delivery and expert support from our team.