Comhairle nan Eilean Siar PRESS RELEASE 30 October 2001 For Use: Immediately

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Fireworks Are Explosives - Get Wise Or Get Hurt

Over the past five years over 350 pre-school children, some as young as one year old, were treated in hospital for firework injuries.

But the possibility of injuries can be decreased by following simple guidelines. Copies of the guidelines are available from the Consumer Protection section of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and at libraries.

Safe Home Firework Display Guidelines

Before The Display

Check the fireworks you buy are suitable for the size of garden and conform to British Standards.
Read the instructions in daylight
One person - clearly identified - should be responsible for fireworks

Things You Will Need On The Night

Torch for checking instructions
Bucket of water
Eye Protection and gloves
Bucket of soft earth to stick fireworks in
A board for flat-bottomed fireworks
Suitable supports for catherine wheels, proper launchers for rockets

During The Display

Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
Light fireworks at arm's length with a taper
Stand well back and keep others back
Never go back to a lit firework
Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
Always supervise children
Store fireworks in a metal box, kept closed between use
Keep pets indoors

After The Display

Use tongs or gloves to collect spent fireworks

Sparklers

Unsuitable for children under five
Light one at a time
Wear gloves when holding sparklers
Put used sparklers hot end down into a bucket of sand or water

Bonfires

Should be at least 18 metres (60ft) away from houses, trees, hedges, fences or sheds
Use domestic firelighters
Never use petrol, paraffin or other flammable liquids

Ends

Issued by Nigel Scott
Communications Officer

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 01851 706412 (Home)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk