Fireworks have been a source of joy and celebration for centuries, bringing colour, light, and excitement to any occasion. Whether it’s New Year’s Eve, Diwali, Bonfire Night, weddings, or family gatherings, fireworks add magic to the moment. However, safety should always come first when handling them at home. By following the right precautions and using high-quality products, you can enjoy fireworks without putting yourself or others at risk.

At Big Shotter Fireworks, we’re passionate about making celebrations memorable while also helping our customers understand the importance of safe firework use. In this blog, we’ll share practical tips on how to safely use fireworks at home, with special attention to popular favourites like roman candles, sparklers, rockets, and more.

Choose the Right Fireworks Supplier

The first step towards safe enjoyment is buying fireworks from a trusted supplier. Always purchase from reputable companies like Big Shotter Fireworks, where every product is tested, regulated, and meets UK safety standards. Avoid illegal or unlabelled fireworks, as they may not comply with safety guidelines and can be dangerous.

Prepare Your Space

Before setting off fireworks at home, make sure you have the right environment:

• Open area: Use a spacious outdoor area, away from houses, fences, sheds, vehicles, and especially trees.
   
• Clear ground: Remove dry leaves, rubbish, or anything flammable.
   
• Safe distance: Spectators should stand well back, following the distance recommendations printed on the firework packaging.
   

Remember that fireworks should never be lit indoors or in small, enclosed gardens.

Follow Instructions Carefully

Every firework comes with specific instructions printed on the packaging. Take a few minutes to read them before lighting. Whether it’s roman candles, rockets, or sparklers, each firework type has unique handling rules. For example, roman candles should never be held in the hand—they must always be placed firmly in the ground or secured in a bucket of sand before lighting.

Use the Right Equipment

To stay safe, always light fireworks with proper tools:

• Long taper or safety lighter: Never use matches or cigarette lighters.
   
• Bucket of water or sand: Keep these nearby in case of emergencies.
   
• Protective gear: Wear gloves and safety glasses, especially if children are nearby.
   

Avoid relighting a firework if it fails to go off. Leave it alone for at least 15–20 minutes, then soak it in water before disposing of it safely.

Be Responsible with Sparklers

Sparklers are often seen as harmless, but they burn at extremely high temperatures and can cause serious injuries if mishandled. Follow these tips:

• Never give sparklers to children under five.
   
• Always wear gloves when holding them.
   
• Light sparklers one at a time.
   
• Once finished, place them in a bucket of water.
   

When used responsibly, sparklers are a fun and sparkling addition to any home celebration.

Supervise Children at All Times

If you’re celebrating with family, ensure that children are always supervised. Let them enjoy the show from a safe distance, but never allow them to light fireworks themselves. Even small fireworks can cause injuries if mishandled.

Respect Your Neighbours and Pets

Fireworks are exciting for people, but they can be stressful for animals and even bothersome for some neighbours. Before starting your display, consider:

• Letting neighbours know in advance.
   
• Avoiding late-night fireworks.
   
• Keeping pets indoors with the curtains closed and some background noise to calm them.
   

By being thoughtful, you can keep your celebration safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Store Fireworks Safely

If you have leftover fireworks, store them in a cool, dry place away from heat sources, flames, and children. Keep them in a closed box, never in your pocket or loose inside the house.

Enjoy Responsibly with Big Shotter Fireworks

At Big Shotter Fireworks, we offer a wide range of fireworks, including rockets, fountains, sparklers, and roman candles, all designed to create magical displays while meeting strict safety standards. By choosing our products and following safety guidelines, you can enjoy the thrill of fireworks at home with complete peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Fireworks bring joy, excitement, and unforgettable memories, but only when handled with care. Always buy from trusted suppliers, prepare your space, follow instructions, and prioritise safety. Whether you’re lighting roman candles in the garden or creating a stunning display with a mix of fireworks, remember that responsible use is the key to a successful celebration.