Having fireworks at home or visiting a public display can be great fun especially for children and if used correctly and responsibly, people can enjoy themselves without any danger.

However, it is a fact that most accidents are caused by improper use of fireworks and by carelessness.

Therefore we are appealing to everyone that is either having a display at home or attending an organised display to take great care this bonfire night and to follow the firework code.

The firework code

• Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114.
• Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.
  Keep fireworks in a closed box.
• Follow the instructions on each firework.
• Light at arm's length, using a taper.
• Stand well back.
• Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn't gone off, it could still explode.
  Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.
• Always supervise children around fireworks.
• Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.
• Never give sparklers to a child under five.
• Keep pets indoors.

Bonfire Safety Advice

• The Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service would always encourage people to go to an organised display, however if you do have a bonfire...
• Site well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs AND ALWAYS AWAY FROM FIREWORKS.
• Build the stack so that it is stable and will not collapse outwards or to one side.
• NEVER use flammable liquids - paraffin or petrol - to light the fire.
• Don't burn foam-filled furniture, aerosols, tins of paint and bottles.
• Keep everyone away from the fire - especially children, who must be supervised all the time.
• For an emergency keep buckets of water or the garden hose or a fire extinguisher ready.
• Pour water on the embers before leaving.