This week’s Picture News resource is all about fireworks, in the run up to Bonfire Night! An animal charity, called Redwings Horse Sanctuary, has asked the government to make fireworks quieter to help protect animals and people. Sometimes, the loud noises created by fireworks can scare animals, like dogs, cats and horses, and also some people. //b667e803ea5399501dccf24f2b415eee.cdn.bubble.io/f1761579503048x303802118190024300/richtext_content.jpeg Let’s explore more about Bonfire Night, and how everyone can keep safe on the night. Every year on 5th November, communities around the UK hold celebrations with fireworks and bonfires (which is a large outdoor fire). People often get together to set off fireworks, light bonfires, enjoy hot drinks and socialise at public displays or at home. Whilst it’s a fun experience for many, there are some key things to remember to keep everyone safe and happy. Keeping safe on Bonfire Night – some top tips for children! 1. Stay with trusted adults Going to see the fireworks and bonfire can be exciting for lots of people. As fun as it might be, public bonfire displays can be busy with lots of people attending. So, make sure you stick with the responsible adults you’re going to see the fireworks with, especially when fireworks are being let off or you’re near the bonfire. When you arrive at the event, you might want to set a safe ‘meet spot’ location, just in case you get separated from each other. 2. Keep away from fireworks and bonfires Fireworks and bonfires can be eye-catching, with bright colours, swirls and pops of light! However, as tempting as it might be to have a closer look, it’s very important to keep a good distance from bonfires and fireworks. If you have fireworks at home, they should only be handled and lit by adults, and everyone should keep well away as the fireworks go off. Public displays will have areas fenced off where the fireworks and bonfires are, to make sure people attending keep a safe distance. This way, we can ensure everyone has lots of fun whilst keeping safe. 3. Be careful with sparklers People often give out sparklers on Bonfire Night. They are special sticks that, when lit with a flame, produce a sparkling light. Whilst they’re pretty to look at, it’s important to be careful when handling them so everyone keeps safe. If you’d like to hold a sparkler on the night, make sure an adult is with you when holding it. It’s a good idea to wear gloves to protect your hands from the sparks, and keep it away from other people, clothing or hair. When you’re done, make sure an adult helps you dispose of it properly. 4. Protect your ears Fireworks are often noisy, creating loud bangs, pops and whooshes. You can protect your ears whilst experiencing the fireworks. Some people wear headphones or ear muffs, to look after their ears (and keep them toasty in the cold!) when attending a firework display. 5. Look out for each other You might be attending a firework display with family and friends. Public displays can be busy and sometimes overwhelming for some people. Young children or older people might be frightened by the loud noises of the fireworks, so try to show compassion and think about how they might be feeling. Remember to be there for others, to make sure those around you are okay and staying safe during the night. 6. Listen to the people running the event Community firework displays and bonfires are run by people who organise the event, to make sure the experience is enjoyable for all. The people running the event may give out instructions to people attending. For example, there might be signs or areas fenced off. It’s important to listen to these instructions and stick to the permitted areas, as they’re there to keep everyone safe and make sure you have fun! 7. At home, care for your pets If you have pets, maybe a dog or cat, it’s important you and your adults at home make sure they are comfortable during the firework period. Fireworks are often let off more frequently in the autumn and winter months, usually beginning in October. So around this time, make sure you’re prepared at home to keep your animals safe. It’s a good idea to keep them indoors at night to avoid them getting scared outside, and have the TV or radio on to block out some of the loud bangs. Plenty of pet cuddles too! The video below includes more information and tips for keeping safe during firework celebrations: CFSwR-NFJCg Bonfire Night is just one of many celebrations involving fireworks. Whether you’re celebrating Bonfire Night, Diwali or New Year, let’s ensure we make sensible choices, look after the people around us, and have fun! Some extra useful websites KS2: Newsround – Bonfire Night: Top tips for staying safe Child Accident Prevention Trust – Firework Safety Lessons for Little Ones Early Years / KS1: Safe with Sam: Bonfire Night Firework Safety with FiDo the Firedog
