Event safety guide for event organisers
9. Fireworks and bonfire events
Bonfires
It is against the law under the Highways Act 1980 to allow smoke to drift onto a highway or motorway.
Fire can spread quickly so you should choose your bonfire site carefully away from any roads, motorways, railways, buildings, trees, fences etc.
You should not:
- burn anything that is damp, as this creates thick smoke
- leave the fire unattended
- leave the fire to smoulder for long periods
- burn anything made of plastic, rubber or glass
- burn household waste, treated or painted manufactured wood, mattresses, metal, aerosols, anything containing paint or foam
Firework displays
When organising a firework display you should use a competent firework display organiser who conforms to the Health & Safety Executive guidelines.
You also need to carry out a proper fire risk assessment of the event to ensure the safety of those attending.