Devon and Cornwall Police are encouraging those celebrating bonfire night to remember that fireworks are explosives and should be respected.

More children than adults get injured by fireworks every year and the police want to stop that from happening.

In particular, sparklers can reach temperatures more than 15 times as hot as boiling water and five times hotter than cooking oil.

By following this advice you can minimize harm to your family and friends.

Devon and Cornwall Police’s tips for staying safe.

• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.

• Never throw used fireworks, paraffin or petrol, on a bonfire.

• Take care around bonfires, especially keeping clothing away.

• Make sure bonfires are out and surroundings are safe before leaving.

• Misfired or partly used fireworks should be soaked in a container of water and the manufacturer should be contacted for advice on disposal.

If you are putting on your own display.....

  • Only one person should be responsible for letting off fireworks.
  • Don’t drink alcohol if you are setting off fireworks.
  • Light fireworks at arm’s length, using a taper.
  • Make sure everyone stands well back.
  • Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks.
  • Direct any rocket fireworks well away from people.
  • NEVER go back to a firework that has been lit even if it has not gone off it could still explode.

Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114 or with a CE mark from a reputable seller. This shows that the firework meets British or European Safety standards. Follow the instructions on each firework and use a torch to read it.

On Bonfire Night, November 5, you can let off fireworks until midnight.

On New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year, until 1am.

It is an offence to let off fireworks between the hours of 11pm and 7am on any other day.