Warning issued to anyone setting off fireworks on New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is just around the corner with many Brits likely to set off fireworks.

Fire safety is important if you’re planning to set off fireworks and a warning has been issued by Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service.

It said the safest way to enjoy fireworks is at a professionally organised public event rather than setting off your own, reports Oxford Mail.

Councillor Dr Nathan Ley, Oxfordshire County Council’s cabinet member for public health, inequalities, and community safety, said: “We want people to have fun on New Year’s Eve, however, I urge everyone to be sensible and to take a few moments to read our safety tips.”

Deb Forder, community safety manager from Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, added: “Organised fireworks displays are cheaper and far safer than hosting your own fireworks party.

“However, if you are planning on using fireworks for a private event on December 31, or at other community gatherings, it’s key to check out the firework safety and UK law around their use.

“You can check out the British Fireworks Association’s dedicated website for this.”

To ensure safety, you should only buy CE quality marked fireworks from reputable shops and make sure to keep your fireworks in a closed metal box.

If one firework does not go off, do not return to it, says Mr Forder.

It’s also important to know the law around setting off your own fireworks. According to The Scotsman, noise after 11pm, fireworks, and bonfires could result in fines, although there are exceptions for New Year’s Eve.

Usually, you are not allowed to use fireworks between 11pm and 7am but for the likes of Diwali, New Year’s Eve, and Chinese New Year, you can fire away till 1am, says LadBible.

Local councils may have additional rules, so always check in advance for where you live.

If you’re looking for the best place to see a fireworks display near you, there will be many New Years fireworks shows across the country.

Some of the best include London, Newcastle Quayside, Birmingham’s Centenary Square, Manchester’s Albert Square, Bristol’s Harbourside.

In Wales, head to Tudor Square in Tenby, Saundersfoot Beach in Pembrokeshire or Cardiff Castle.