Londoners have been warned not to buy their own fireworks after a series of dangerous incidents over Halloween weekend.
Despite the temptation to put on DIY displays, revellers are being urged by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) to instead opt for organised displays which are safely and professionally handled.
The brigade was kept busy last weekend after 27 separate firework related incidents across London were reported.
In one particularly dangerous incident, fireworks were let off in the communal areas of flat buildings in Park Royal and Muswell Hill.
In another, there were reports of fireworks being ignited on a bus in Hanwell.
One case led to a balcony fire in Tulse Hill, whilst another led to a house fire in Ilford.
Fireworks were even misused near a hospital in Hampstead in one incident.
People misusing fireworks have caused trees, bushes and sheds to catch fire in Ruislip, Erith and Dagenham.
The LFB says that since the start of October, they have handled over 60 firework related calls and incidents.
A spokesperson said: “As we approach Bonfire Night, we want to remind Londoners that fireworks are explosives and should be treated with respect.
“When you misuse fireworks, it risks lives and takes resources away from other emergencies across the capital.”
They remind Londoners that misusing fireworks is illegal and breaking this law can lead to a prison sentence of up to six months and an unlimited fine.
The brigade urges people to only attend organised fireworks displays, which will be “safer, cheaper and more spectacular.”
The eyes of the world will once again be on London’s spectacular fireworks display this New Year’s Eve 🎆
— Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan (@MayorofLondon) November 1, 2025
Don’t miss your chance to see this iconic show ⤵️
Book your tickets via Ticketmaster before they sell out: https://t.co/LyDHtgtb7V pic.twitter.com/gw2G3TnzUN
Organised fireworks displays will be taking place across the capital on Bonfire Night, and a list of which can be found on the London Fire Brigade website.
In the circumstance that people do still choose to use fireworks, they urge Londoners to consider people around them, as well as animals and properties.
They also encourage parents to have conversations with their children about the dangers of playing with fireworks.
Sellers are reminded that fireworks cannot be sold to anyone under the age of 18. Buyers are reminded to check for the CE mark on their products and to familiarise themselves with the Fireworks Code.
🎆🎇 #BonfireNight is fast approaching!
— PC Darren Kirkwood (@PCDKirkwood) November 3, 2025
Did you know that letting off fireworks between 11 pm and 7 am is illegal?
(Except on Bonfire Night, when the cut-off is midnight)
Remember, Remember… report any noise nuisances to your local council.#MakeTheRightCall #StaySafe pic.twitter.com/dvou6lt2HY
Amongst the regulations on the Fireworks code, users are reminded not to set fireworks off on balconies, not to drink alcohol if setting off fireworks, and never to return to a firework once it has been lit.
The code also includes caution around the use of sparklers, including a reminder to only light one at a time, to wear gloves, keep a bucket of water close by, and never to give a sparkler to a child under the age of five.
Londoners are reminded that the curfew for Bonfire Night is midnight and to be considerate of neighbours if they are planning to set fireworks off from home.
The London Fire Brigade has been contacted for comment.
