How to stay safe on Bonfire Night 

On 5th November every year we celebrate Bonfire Night. This is a night to remember the Gunpowder Plot which was stopped just in time. In 1605, a group of 13 men wanted to blow up the Houses of Parliament with gunpowder, including a man named Guy Fawkes. An anonymous letter tipped off the King that there was something planned, and Guy Fawkes was found in the cellar of the parliament with the gunpowder. 

To celebrate this special night, we light bonfires and watch firework displays. You might even have some hot dogs or jacket potatoes, or a delicious hot chocolate. Did you know that until 1959, it was illegal to not celebrate Bonfire Night? It is a night filled with fun, however it’s very important that we stay safe. 

Firstly, only adults should be near fireworks. That means everyone else needs to stay very well back. If a firework does not go off after it’s been lit, don’t go anywhere near it. It can still go off even if it doesn’t look like it will, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Bonfire night can be cold, so it’s important to make sure you wear your hats, scarves and gloves. Gloves are especially important if you plan on using sparklers. These can create pretty shapes in the sky, but they can also be dangerous if they aren’t used properly. Only use a sparkler with an adult and hold it as far away from yourself as possible. Once you are done with it, it’s important to put it in a bucket of water so it doesn’t stay hot. A good way you can have fun without the risk is making sparklers from breadsticks dipped in chocolate and sprinkles, which both children and adults can enjoy making together. 

If you are going to a big firework display with a big group of people, make sure to stay close to an adult so that you don’t get lost. You might be tempted to go very close to any bonfires while your parents watch the fireworks, but you will be much safer staying close. 

Your pets might also get a little bit frightened by the loud noises on the night. If you have a dog, try to take them for a walk in the day so they can settle in for the night. Close all of your windows and curtains and turn on the TV or radio so that the noises aren’t so obvious. If they hide, don’t try to pull them out, as this will only make them more frightened. 

Don’t forget, the most important rule is to have fun! You can have a great night while staying safe.