Bonfire Night

Ahead of Bonfire Night, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is reminding people that fireworks are not toys and should only be used in accordance with the firework code.

Every year, RoSPA hears about people – including children – being injured by fireworks. Data collected across Britain in previous years shows that, on average, around 1,000 people visit A&E for treatment of a firework-related injury in the four weeks around Bonfire Night, with half of the injuries being suffered by under-18s. About half of firework injuries happen at family or private parties and about a quarter in the street or other public place. A much smaller proportion – around 10% – of the injuries happen at large public displays.

A representative from RoSPA says: “By law, category 2 fireworks – which are the type suitable for garden displays – cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 18 and under-18s are also not allowed to carry fireworks in a public place. It is therefore disappointing that we are still hearing about under-18s being injured by fireworks. We are urging parents and carers to talk to children and young people about the dangers of fireworks and we appeal to all adults not to pass on fireworks to under-18s. Fireworks are not toys – they are explosives and, as such, should be treated with respect.”

They add: “RoSPA has long said that the safest place to enjoy fireworks is at a properly-organised public display, but we understand that attending one of these events is not possible for everyone. Therefore, if planning a fireworks display at home, we urge people to brush up on the firework code to ensure their celebration goes off with a bang for all the right reasons.”

The Firework Code

Only buy fireworks from a reputable retailer and ensure the packaging carries the “CE” mark or is marked with “BS 7114” and make sure you follow The Firework Code this Bonfire Night.

Be sure to:

• Plan your fireworks display to make it safe and enjoyable
• Keep fireworks in a closed box and use them one at a time
• Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary
• Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back
• Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
• Never return to a firework once it has been lit
• Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
• Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
• Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire
• Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving

Tunbridge Wells Firework Displays

There are plenty of organised firework displays taking place over the forthcoming days in and around Tunbridge Wells. Here are our top two:

Dunorlan Park Firework Display: Saturday 3rd November

Hosted by the Tunbridge Wells Round Table, this display starts at 5.30pm. Visitors are invited to sample local food and drink, enjoy the park and watch the fireworks as they launch at 7pm.

For more details and to purchase tickets.

Pembury Fireworks Display: Friday 2nd November

This annual event takes place at Lower Green Road recreation ground. Gates open at 6.30pm with the fireworks are set to blast off at 7.30pm. Entry is free, but a charity collection is taking place at the end of the event for the Pembury Scout and Guide Hut.

For more details.

The Pantiles

Why not make Bonfire Night memorable for the right reasons this year and enjoy it with friends and family? Come to The Pantiles before one of the Tunbridge Wells organised displays and grab a bite to eat in one of our restaurants, cafes or pubs. Perhaps even enjoying a night cap after you’ve watched the sparks fly? Inspiration on where to eat and drink can be found here.

Enjoy Bonfire Night!