How to enjoy fireworks safely this Guy Fawkes

Love it or loathe it, another Guy Fawkes weekend is upon us.

If you're one of the people who loves it, the rules around fireworks have been tightened up in recent years, so here’s what you need to know.

Buying fireworks

The window of opportunity for legally buying fireworks in Aotearoa is quite short.

If you’re aged 18 years or older, you can buy fireworks between November 2 and Guy Fawkes Day itself – November 5.

Sparklers are only able to be bought if packaged up with other fireworks.

Using fireworks

Different regions may have different rules about where fireworks can be used and at what times, so it pays to check your local council’s website before grabbing your fireworks.

While you’re checking your local council’s website, check the weather forecast, too – lighting fireworks on a windy evening can be dangerous.

Choose your spot for lighting fireworks carefully. Fireworks should only be used in open areas away from people, animals, buildings and trees.

Safety first

Children using sparklers (file photo) (Source: istock.com)

Follow these tips for a safer fireworks experience:

The end of the night

Disposing of fireworks properly is also important.

Put all fireworks, including the duds that didn’t ignite, into a big bucket of water and leave them in that overnight.

Once the fireworks are completely soaked through, wrap them up carefully and put them in the rubbish – don’t throw them into waterways.

If you’re one of those people that likes to hoard fireworks for using another time, be aware those fireworks may not be safe to use later.

Store any unused fireworks very carefully. Keep them in their packaging, store them somewhere that is both high and dry, and obviously far away from heat sources or anything flammable, including petrol, oil and turpentine.