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.