text: Firework safety - Brentwood Borough Council
  Fireworks are a traditional part of enjoying celebrations such as Bonfire Night or New Year, but they are the cause of around a thousand serious accidents every year. You should remember that they are dangerous explosives.
  The highest number of firework injuries happen at family or private parties and over half of those injuries are to children.
  Fireworks are safe if you use them properly. If you're putting on a home display, you should follow some simple steps to make sure everyone has a good time without getting hurt. Children especially need to know that fireworks can be dangerous if they're not used properly.
  The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to go to an organised event.
  Tips to help you keep safe
  Always buy fireworks from a licensed retailer and only buy fireworks which carry the CE or UKCA marks. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have published useful guidance for storing and selling fireworks.
  It is illegal for retailers to sell fireworks to anyone under the age of 18. The only exceptions are party poppers, cracker snaps, caps, serpents or novelty matches, where the minimum age is 16.
  Always read the packet carefully and make sure the fireworks you buy are suitable for the place where you are going to set them off.
  Only one person should be in charge of fireworks. Make sure you take all the necessary precautions, read the instructions in daylight and don't drink any alcohol until they have all been discharged.
  launchers if you're setting off Catherine wheels or rockets
  More tips for a safe fireworks party
  Never go near a firework that has been lit as it may still explode
  Always supervise children around fireworks and keep pets indoors
  Never give a sparkler to a child under five
  For more information on firework safety, visit ROSPA, GOV.UK: My Safety, GOV.UK: The law or British Fireworks Association.
  If you're organising a major public event, you will need a robust and detailed approach to planning as well as professional involvement. If you're holding a local firework display, you still need to plan responsibly, but the same level of detail is not necessary or expected. The HSE have published some useful tips and guidance to help you organise fireworks displays.
  The Confederation of British Industry Explosives Interest Group has produced guidance on firework displays that you should follow:
  Working together on firework displays (PDF) – aimed at professional firework display organisers and operators
  Giving your own firework display (PDF) – aimed at all other firework displays
  Firework displays can be particularly distressing to animals. For more information, visit RSPCA: fireworks advice for pet owners or Essex Wildlife Trust: Check your bonfire for wildlife.