Remember, remember the fifth of November! The air is crisp, the scent of woodsmoke hangs in the air, and the night sky is about to burst into a kaleidoscope of colour. It’s Bonfire Night, a uniquely British tradition that brings families and communities together for an evening of warmth, wonder, and dazzling displays. At Lighthouse Fostering, we love this time of year as it offers a perfect opportunity for family fun and creating magical memories.
Bonfire Night is more than just historical tradition; it’s a sensory experience that delights children and adults alike. From the crackle of the bonfire to the collective “oohs” and “aahs” as fireworks paint the sky, it’s a night of shared excitement. For foster families, it can be a wonderful bonding experience, a chance to create new, positive memories that help a child feel secure, happy, and part of the family.
While the evening is all about enjoyment, it’s also a time when safety must be a top priority. To ensure your Bonfire Night is memorable for all the right reasons, we’ve put together some guidance and fireworks safety tips to help your family celebrate safely.
The Magic of Organised Displays
One of the best ways to enjoy the spectacle of Bonfire Night is to attend an official, organised display. These events are run by professionals, which makes them the safest option for you and your family. They also often have the most spectacular fireworks, choreographed to music for a truly breathtaking show.
Attending a local display turns the evening into a community event. You get to share the experience with friends and neighbours, enjoy hot drinks and tasty treats, and soak up the festive atmosphere. It takes all the pressure off you, allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying the evening with your children. Many local councils, sports clubs, and community groups host events, so check your local listings to find one near you.
Top Tips for Fireworks Safety
If you choose to have your own celebration at home, it’s essential to follow strict safety rules. Fireworks can be dangerous if not handled correctly, so careful planning is key to a successful and accident-free evening.
1. Buy from Reputable Retailers
Only buy fireworks that carry the CE or UKCA mark. This shows they meet required safety standards. Never buy fireworks from unlicensed sellers, such as from the back of a van or on social media. These could be illegal and are likely to be unsafe.
2. Prepare Your Space
Designate a specific, open area for setting off fireworks, well away from your house, trees, sheds, and any flammable materials. Ensure you have a bucket of water or sand, or a fire extinguisher, close by in case of emergencies. It’s also wise to keep a first-aid kit handy.
3. Follow the Firework Code
Every firework comes with instructions – read them carefully before you begin. The Firework Code provides essential rules for handling them safely:
- Never return to a firework once it has been lit.
- Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
- Don't put fireworks in your pocket.
- Light fireworks at arm's length, using a taper.
- Direct any rocket-type fireworks away from spectators.
- Never throw fireworks.
4. Supervise Children Closely
Bonfire Night is exciting for children, but their safety is paramount. Keep them at a safe distance from where fireworks are being lit and from the bonfire itself. Never let a child handle or light a firework.
Sparklers are often seen as a safer option for children, but they burn at extremely high temperatures (hotter than a welding torch). If you use sparklers, ensure children are supervised at all times, wear gloves, and hold them at arm's length. Once the sparkler has gone out, plunge it into a bucket of cold water or sand immediately, as it will still be very hot.
Keeping Our Furry Friends Safe
The loud bangs and bright flashes of fireworks can be terrifying for pets. The RSPCA estimates that 45% of dogs in the UK show signs of fear when they hear fireworks. It’s our responsibility to make them feel as safe and secure as possible.
Here are a few tips to help your pets cope:
- Keep them indoors: Even if your pet is used to being outside, bring them in. Make sure all windows, doors, and cat flaps are securely closed.
- Create a den: Make a safe, cosy space for them to hide. This could be under a bed, in a crate covered with a blanket, or in a quiet corner of a room. Fill it with their favourite toys and blankets.
- Mask the noise: Close the curtains and turn on the television or some music to help muffle the sound of the fireworks outside.
- Stay calm: Animals are very perceptive and will pick up on your anxiety. Act as normally as possible and offer comfort if they seek it, but don't over-fuss them, as this can reinforce their fearful behaviour.
- Update their microchip: In case the worst happens and your pet does escape, ensure their microchip details are up to date so they can be returned to you safely.
A Night for Family Fun and Bonding
Beyond the fireworks and bonfires, this evening is a wonderful opportunity for quality family time. For many children in foster care, this might be their first positive experience of Bonfire Night. You can make it extra special by incorporating other fun traditions.
Wrap up warm in hats and scarves, enjoy mugs of hot chocolate, and munch on toffee apples. Tell stories around the bonfire (at a safe distance!) or use the darkness to play torchlight games in the garden before the display begins. These simple activities build a sense of occasion and create a warm, inclusive atmosphere where a child can feel they truly belong.
At Lighthouse Fostering, we believe that creating these joyful memories is a vital part of the fostering journey. It helps to build trust, strengthen bonds, and provides a child with a sense of normality and stability.
From all of us at the Lighthouse Fostering team, we wish you a very happy and safe Bonfire Night. Let’s make it a magical evening filled with sparkling skies and happy family memories.