The weather is changing, the night's are drawing in and the Autumn feels are everywhere.
And the good news is that with the change in season comes a whole heap of new celebrations to prepare for and enjoy when they arrive.
Bonfire Night is fast approaching and New Year's Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year are all still to come and many of the festivities involve fireworks.
But do you know the do's and don'ts when it comes to them? And that you could land up with a huge fine if you don't follow what the law says?
Here's what you need to know if you plan on celebrating with fireworks.
How old do you have to be to buy fireworks?
If you're under 18, you cannot buy 'adult' fireworks.
This applies to category 2 and 3 fireworks which the gov.uk website says doesn't apply to things like party poppers.
Are there time limits?
Yes. The law says that you must not set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am.
But there are exceptions to the rule for the following:
- Bonfire Night the cut-off is midnight
For New Year's Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year the cut off is 1am
The curfew applies to all places, including gardens and private land.
Your local council may also have its own rules in place so check with those too in advance.
When can you buy fireworks?
Sales of fireworks from registered sellers for private use is only permitted on the following dates:
- October 15 to November 10
- December 26 to 31
- Three days before Diwali and Chinese New Year
What are the penalties for not following the law?
If the rules of the Firework Regulations 2004 are not followed, you can be fined up to £5,000 and imprisoned for up to six months for selling or using fireworks illegally.
On-the-spot fines of £90 can also be issued.
What is the firework code?
Each year, many people end up with injuries, including very young children, as a result of unsafe firework use.
As a result, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has devised a firework code with 10 tips for a safer party:
- Only buy fireworks that meet BS7114
- Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
- Keep fireworks in a closed box
- Follow the instructions on each firework
- Light them 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
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