Fire Service Urges Public to Follow Firework Code After Surge in Incidents
Residents across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are being urged to take extra care this Bonfire Night after firefighters recorded a significant increase in incidents during last year’s celebrations.
According to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS), the number of fires attended by crews during the 2024 bonfire week (1–8 November) was 62% higher than the previous year. Firefighters responded to 112 incidents compared to 69 in 2023, prompting fresh warnings for the community to follow the Firework Code and stay safe.
With many people expected to attend organised displays or host their own celebrations at home, the service is reminding residents that fireworks are explosives and can cause life-changing injuries if not handled properly.
“The safest way to enjoy Bonfire Night is by going to an organised event,” a HIWFRS spokesperson said. “If you are hosting a home display, it’s vital that you make safety your priority.”
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The Firework Code
Residents are being reminded to:
• Keep fireworks away from children, pets, and sources of heat.
• Buy only from licensed sellers and store fireworks in a closed, dry box.
• Read and follow instructions carefully, using a torch if needed.
• Light fireworks at arm’s length using a taper and stand well back.
• Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
• Never return to a firework once lit or throw fireworks.
• Direct rocket fireworks well away from spectators.
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Bonfire Safety
The fire service also advises people to think twice before building bonfires at home.
Bonfires should be built well away from houses, fences, trees, and overhead cables. Flammable liquids such as petrol or paraffin should never be used to start fires.
Once lit, bonfires should be supervised at all times, with a bucket of water or hosepipe nearby in case of emergencies. Children and pets must be kept at a safe distance, and only appropriate materials should be burned. The fire should be fully extinguished before leaving the site.
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Sparkler Safety
HIWFRS warns that sparklers, often seen as harmless, can reach temperatures 20 times the boiling point of water.
Children under five should not handle sparklers. Older children should wear gloves and hold them at arm’s length, with a bucket of water ready for disposal.
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Dealing With Burns
In the event of a burn injury, the service urges people to remember Cool, Call, Cover:
1. Move the casualty away from danger.
2. Cool the burn under cold running water for at least 20 minutes.
3. Cover the burn with cling film to prevent infection.
Blisters should never be burst, and 999 should be called if the burn is large, deep, or affects the face, hands, or feet. Minor burns can be treated by contacting NHS 111 or visiting a local urgent treatment centre.
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Firework Laws
HIWFRS is also reminding residents of the laws surrounding fireworks. It is illegal to:
• Set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am (except until midnight on Bonfire Night).
• Throw or light fireworks in the street, onto roads, or in public places.
• Cause unnecessary suffering to animals with fireworks.
• Possess or use category 4 “display” fireworks.
• Store fireworks for private use for longer than 14 days.
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The service is encouraging everyone to plan ahead, take precautions, and help ensure that this Bonfire Night is both safe and enjoyable for all.