Safety tips for festive celebrations: firecrackers, fireworks and bonfires

Fireworks can cause serious injuries if they are not used correctly. For this reason, it is important to:

• Purchase fireworks only from authorised retailers.
• Choose products that are appropriate for the user’s age.
• Always supervise children when handling fireworks.
• Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions before lighting any product.

Preventing accidents and burns

• Never throw firecrackers near your face or any part of your body.
• Do not carry firecrackers in your pockets or backpack.
• Do not light fireworks inside your home or in enclosed spaces.
• Do not hold fireworks in your hand once the fuse has been lit.
• Do not place fireworks inside bottles, bricks or other containers, as they can shatter and create dangerous flying debris.
• Never throw fireworks at people, animals or vehicles.

Taking extra care with rockets and fireworks

Rockets and other airborne fireworks may deviate from their intended path and cause fires. To reduce this risk, launch rockets only in safe, open areas, keep at least 500 metres away from woodland areas, and avoid using fireworks near vegetation or in locations with a high fire risk.

Safety before lighting a bonfire

Bonfires must comply with local regulations to minimise risks to people and the environment.

Before lighting a bonfire:

• Ensure you have the required local authority permit or authorisation.
• Choose a location away from trees, shrubs, crops and other combustible materials.
• Maintain a minimum distance of 15 metres from buildings and parked vehicles.

During the bonfire:

• Do not use petrol, alcohol or other flammable liquids to start or intensify the fire.
• Do not throw firecrackers or other fireworks into the bonfire.
• Keep the bonfire under constant supervision while it is burning.

What to do in case of a burn

If a burn occurs, acting quickly can help reduce the severity of the injury.

Apply the rule of 15

Cool the burned area with water at approximately 15°C for 15 minutes, applying the water from a distance of around 15 centimetres.

After cooling the burn, cover the affected area with a clean towel or sterile gauze without applying pressure, and seek medical assessment at your nearest primary care centre or hospital.