With Bonfire night looming the inevitable firework displays will start taking place. Fireworks are a great source of entertainment but also carry a range of associated risks.

Therefore it is the advice of Great Yarmouth Council’s Environmental Health Department that where possible, people should always try and attend a properly organised firework display.

“Fireworks are fun but must be used in a safe way at all times. By people following this simple guidance I hope that they have an enjoyable and safe firework display,” advised Kate Watts, Commercial Team Manager for Environmental Health.

In 2005 over two thirds of firework related accidents happened at family or private parties. Interestingly almost double the amount of men than woman were injured by fireworks during this year.

However, it is recognised that some people may want to hold their own private displays and for these people we offer the following advice:

• Only buy fireworks marked with the British Standard BS 7114

• Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks

• Keep fireworks in a closed box and away from children

• Follow the instructions on each firework

• Always light a firework at arms length using a taper and then stand well back

• Never go near a firework once it has been lit, even if it has not gone off it may still explode

• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them

• Always supervise children around fireworks

• Light sparklers one at a time and always wear gloves

• Children under five must not be allowed to play with sparklers

• Keep pets indoors.

Finally, we also have some interesting facts about fireworks, did you know that It is an offence to let fireworks off during night hours (11pm to 7am), except on Bonfire Night (midnight), Diwali, New Year, and Chinese New Year (1am).

Also it is an offence under the Explosives Act 1875 to tamper with or modify fireworks.

For further advice on safety issues regarding fireworks then please contact Environmental Heath on 01493 846 478.

Statistics taken from The Department of Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform website www.berr.gov.uk