News November 2006
Remember, remember, Firework Safety in Hackney
We are now in the fireworks season and with the Guy Fawkes celebrations this weekend Hackney Council wants to remind its residents about fireworks safety.
It is an offence for anyone under 18 to possess fireworks in the street. Council officers work closely with local police to expose shops illegally selling fireworks. Shopkeepers caught selling fireworks without a licence to a minor face prosecution.
There is a firework curfew. Nobody must set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am except 5 November when this is extended to midnight. The curfew is extended to 1am for Diwali, New Year and Chinese New Year.
Cllr Alan Laing, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods said:
"The Council works with our partners in the Police and Fire Brigade to ensure our residents are safe all year round. We want everyone to enjoy the fireworks season. It is important that retailers abide by fireworks legislation and that everyone is encouraged to take public safety seriously, especially for those under 18."
There will be a number of official displays around the Hackney area:
4 November - Alexandra Palace, 4.30pm, fireworks at 7.30pm. Adults £2, children £1.50.
4 November - Chestnut Field, Walthamstow, fireworks at 8pm. Adults £4, Under 16s £3, Under 5s free.
5 November - Victoria Park, Grove Road entrance - The Emperor and the Tiger show and fireworks display - event starts 7.30pm, admission free.
If you are having your own display, remember the firework safety code:
- Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114
- Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
- Keep fireworks in a closed box
- Follow the instructions on each firework
- Light at arm's length, using a taper
- Stand well back
- Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn't gone off, it could still explode
- Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
- Always supervise children around fireworks
- Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
- Never give sparklers to a child under five
- Keep pets indoors
Any information relating to the illegal sale of fireworks can be anonymously reported to the Council on 020 8356 4929. For more information on firework safety go our firework safety page where you can also link to other websites.
Page updated: 15 Jun 2010
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