Firework Night Fun

It’s that time of the year again when the nights have drawn in, the clocks go back and and we’re all looking forward to finding a bonfire and enjoying some fireworks, warming drinks and party food.

But do we all know what the firework fuss is about? Here are a few fun facts related to Bonfire Night:

• Fireworks were invented by the Chinese. As early as 200BC they were heating green bamboo stalks which would expand and explode. These firecrackers were used to scare away mountain men and evil spirits.
• Circa 900AD Chinese alchemists discovered gunpowder by accidentally mixing potassium nitrate, sulphur and charcoal.
• Modern firework displays use aerial shells filled with colour pellets. These shells were first developed in Italy in the 19th century.
• Until as recently as 1959 it was illegal not to celebrate Bonfire Night because it celebrates the failed 1605 Gunpowder Plot of Guy Fawkes and Robert Catesby.
• Before each state opening of Parliament, the Yeomen of the Guard search the cellars under the Houses of Parliament by candlelight.
• The first recorded use of fireworks in Britain was at the wedding of Henry VII in 1486.
• Firework rockets travel at speeds of over 150 mph and can reach heights of 656 feet (200 metres).
• China produces 90 per cent of all fireworks and exports them around the world.

Fireworks Night is a fun time. You may be  thinking about having your own display in your back garden. It’s always fun to have a family and friends round to celebrate. But remember - keep your family and pets safe this Bonfire Night.

Here are some safety tips from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA):

• Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable
• Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time
• Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary
• Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back
• Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
• Never return to a firework once it has been lit
• Don't put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
• Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
• Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire
• Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.
• It is recommended that sparklers are not given to under-5s
• Make sure everyone handling sparklers wears gloves
• Hold sparklers at arm’s length while they are being lit
• Don’t wave sparklers about close to other people
• Never hold a baby in your arms while you are holding a sparkler
• When the sparkler has finished put it in a bucket of cold water.
• One person should be responsible for the bonfire and children should be supervised
• Choose a site away from wooden fences, sheds and where children will be playing
• Never pour petrol, paraffin or meths on to a fire - it’s safer to use fire lighters to prevent flare-ups
• Keep a bucket of water handy in case of an accident
• Avoid loose clothing and tie back long hair
• After the party, pour water on the fire, rather than leaving it to burn out.

For more on firework safety visit https://www.rospa.com/home-safety/advice/fireworks-safety/

And remember, have fun.