As communities across the West Midlands prepare for Bonfire Night celebrations, schools and families are being reminded of the importance of fire safety for children.
While 5 November is a much-anticipated evening full of fireworks, bonfires and sparklers, it is also one of the busiest nights of the year for emergency services. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), hundreds of firework-related injuries occur every year, with the majority involving children under the age of 16.
With that in mind, it is crucial that schools, parents and carers take simple but effective precautions to ensure children can enjoy the festivities safely.
Fireworks and Children: A Dangerous Combination
Fireworks are not toys and should never be handled by children. Even sparklers, which are often seen as harmless, burn at temperatures of up to 1,000 degrees Celsius – five times hotter than boiling water. The speed at which accidents can happen, especially in busy or unfamiliar settings, makes vigilance essential.
Children are naturally drawn to the colours, noise and excitement, but they may not always recognise the risks. This makes education around fire safety a vital part of seasonal preparation, particularly within schools and early years settings.
Key Fire Safety Tips for Bonfire Night
Whether you are hosting a display at home or attending a public event, the following guidance can help keep children safe:
Fireworks
- Children should never light or handle fireworks.
- Fireworks must be lit by a responsible adult, at arm’s length, using a taper.
- Spectators should stand well back, behind safety barriers or marked distances.
- Keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby in case of emergency.
Sparklers
- Sparklers are not suitable for children under five.
- Older children must be closely supervised and wear gloves.
- Only one sparkler should be lit at a time.
- Used sparklers should be placed immediately in a bucket of cold water.
Bonfires
- Build bonfires well away from buildings, fences, trees and play equipment.
- Never use petrol, paraffin or flammable liquids to start or reignite a fire.
- Check for hidden animals or wildlife before lighting the fire.
- Keep children at a safe distance and never leave the fire unattended.
Advice for Schools and Nurseries
Schools and nurseries often choose to explore firework-themed learning in the classroom during this time of year. If your setting is hosting a firework or bonfire event, consider the following:
- Carry out a full risk assessment in advance.
- Ensure fire extinguishers and first aid kits are readily available.
- Have trained staff on hand to supervise children and manage emergencies.
- Use the opportunity to deliver age-appropriate lessons on fire safety, including the "Stop, Drop and Roll" technique.
- Inform parents in advance of safety arrangements and expectations.
Emergency Advice for Burns
If a child sustains a burn, it is important to act quickly:
- Cool the burn with cool running water for at least 20 minutes.
- Do not apply creams, oils, or ice.
- Remove any clothing or jewellery near the burn (unless stuck to the skin).
- Cover the burn with cling film or a clean, non-fluffy dressing.
- Seek medical attention or dial 999 in serious cases.
A Time for Celebration – and Caution
Bonfire Night is a cherished British tradition that brings communities together and creates lasting memories for children. However, the potential risks should not be underestimated. By working together – as families, educators and community members – we can ensure that the only things lighting up the sky this November are fireworks, not emergency signals.
For more guidance on seasonal safety, visit the official RoSPA and UK Fire and Rescue Service websites, or speak to your local authority about safe public displays in your area.