Fireworks safety

Attending fireworks displays is very popular during the autumn and winter, particularly around Halloween and New Year.

However, if they aren't used safely, fireworks can be harmful. In fact, they are classified as dangerous explosives under the Explosives (Fireworks) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2002.

Fireworks licensing

You need a special licence if you plan to hold a fireworks display or use any type of outdoor fireworks (except sparklers). You should apply for your licence as far in advance of your intended display date as possible.

Application forms, information and advice are available at www.nidirect.gov.uk

You can also call 028 9052 0057 for more information.

Sale of fireworks

If you are a business owner and you want to store or sell fireworks from your premises, you must register with the Firearms and Explosives branch of the Department of Justice

Call them on 028 9052 0057 for more information.

It is illegal to sell fireworks to anyone under the age of 16.

Buying fireworks

You should only buy fireworks from a reputable supplier. A list of registered retailers is available from the Department of Justice

Fireworks should be marked BS 7114 to show they have met the relevant British standard.

If you suspect fireworks are being sold illegally, call the Police Service of Northern Ireland on 0845 600
8000. Fireworks safety poster

Safety tips

Although most people use fireworks responsibly, there are many firework-related accidents each year.

Over the Halloween period in 2008, in Northern Ireland:

32 people suffered fireworks injuries (a decrease of 67 per cent from 2007)
eight out of ten (81 per cent) of those injured were male
most of those injured (66 per cent) were under 18.

Use the following tips when attending or holding a fireworks display:

don’t drink alcohol if you are setting off fireworks
keep a bucket of water nearby
store fireworks in a closed box until set-up time
follow the instructions for each firework
light all items at arm’s length
stand well back from the display
never go back to a lit firework
never put fireworks in your pocket
never throw fireworks at anyone or anything
keep pets indoors
light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
never give sparklers to a child under the age of five
make sure you have adequate insurance cover if you are holding a display.

More information

For more information about fireworks, call us on 028 9027 0428.