BERR | Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory reform

Children jumping with fireworks in background

It is an offence under the Explosives Act 1875 to tamper with or modify fireworks

Information for Firework Traders

Legislation is in place affecting the import, sale and use of fireworks. Make sure you know how it affects you.

In this section...

The information is divided into sections targeted at different groups. These are:

Click on the menu at the top of the page to visit the different sections of the web site.

Our resource pages have similarly targeted publicity, information sheets and leaflets that can be downloaded in Adobe Acrobat PDF format.

• Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114.

• Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.

• Keep fireworks in a closed box.

• Follow the instructions on each firework.

• Light 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.