Firework Safety Tips

Here are some simple and practical firework safety tips to help you enjoy a fun, safe and memorable night, whether you’re hosting a small garden display, celebrating with neighbours or planning a family-friendly New Year’s Eve party at home.

1. Buy from a trusted local shop

Always buy fireworks from a reputable supplier. Customers travel from Guildford, Farnham, Petersfield, Liphook, Godalming and surrounding areas to visit Hokey Cokey Party Shop in Haslemere because they know our fireworks are compliant, high quality and correctly labelled.

2. Choose the right type of firework for your space

Not all fireworks are suitable for small gardens or built-up residential areas, so it’s important to choose carefully. Ask for advice before buying, especially if space is limited. We stock a wide range of garden fireworks, family-friendly fireworks and quieter, low-noise options which are ideal for homes with children or pets. Sparklers are a popular choice for smaller gardens, but they should always be used outdoors, handled responsibly and supervised, especially around children.

3. Check the safety distance requirements

Every firework has a recommended safety distance. This will be shown on the label. Make sure you have enough space to set up and view safely. In smaller gardens, choose fireworks that only require 5 or 8 metres rather than 25 metres.

4. Always read the instructions in daylight

Don’t wait until it’s dark, cold and windy to read safety guidance. Unpack your fireworks earlier in the day, check how each one works, and plan the order of your display.

5. Set up safely and securely

Use flat, stable ground away from fences, trees, sheds and parked cars. For cakes or fountains, secure them using a board or sand. For rockets, use proper launch tubes that are placed safely and angled away from people.

6. Keep young children and pets indoors

Children should never handle fireworks or sparklers without supervision. Sparklers burn at very high temperatures and should be held at arm’s length, away from faces, clothing and hair. Keep pets indoors and turn on the radio or TV to muffle noise.

7. Use a safety kit

When lighting fireworks, always have a bucket of water, a torch and a pair of safety gloves close by. Use a long-reach lighter, and never lean over a firework while lighting it.

8. Never relight a dud

If a firework fails to go off, do not return to it. Wait at least 15 minutes before approaching, then soak it in water. Never try to relight it.

9. Respect your neighbours

If you live in Guildford, Godalming, Farnham, Petersfield or other built-up areas, let your neighbours know if you plan to use fireworks. This is helpful for families with young children, pets or older residents.

10. Dispose of used fireworks safely

Once your display has finished, soak spent fireworks and cartridges in a bucket of water before placing them in your general waste bin. Do not burn or recycle them.

Wishing you a spectacular New Year!

A New Year’s Eve celebration can be memorable, magical and safe when the right fireworks are used responsibly. Hokey Cokey Party Shop in Haslemere stocks fireworks, low-noise options, sparklers, safety accessories and friendly advice to help you plan the perfect display. Whether you’re in Guildford, Godalming, Farnham, Petersfield, Liphook or nearby, it’s worth the short journey to visit us and get set for a safe and spectacular New Year.