Using crackers safely

Fireworks are explosives. Every year people are hurt by them, and almost always because of something avoidable. Please read this before you light anything.

Before you start

• Buy only from licensed sellers, and keep crackers in their original boxes until you use them
• Store them somewhere cool and dry, away from any flame, and out of reach of children
• Choose an open space outdoors, away from vehicles, dry leaves, thatch and buildings
• Keep a bucket of water and a bucket of sand within reach before you begin
• Read the instructions printed on each box, they differ by item

While lighting

• Light one cracker at a time, at arm's length, using an agarbatti or a long taper
• Never lean over a cracker while lighting it
• Wear cotton clothes, not synthetics, and keep them close-fitting
• Never hold a lit cracker in your hand, and never put one in a bottle, tin or pipe
• Children must be supervised by an adult at all times, without exception

If something goes wrong

• Never go back to a cracker that did not light. Wait at least ten minutes, then soak it in water
• For a burn, hold it under cool running water for at least ten minutes. Do not apply oil, toothpaste or ice
• For any burn to the face, eyes or hands, or anything larger than a coin, go to a hospital

Afterwards

• Soak all used crackers in water before throwing them away
• Clear the area, so nobody steps on debris the next morning

Please also

• Follow the hours your local authority allows, and any restrictions in force
• Keep pets indoors. The noise frightens them badly
• Be considerate of neighbours who are unwell, elderly, or have young children