5 Common Fireworks Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

There’s nothing quite like watching the sky burst into colour on Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, or a summer celebration. But while fireworks bring excitement and joy, they can also be dangerous if not handled properly.

Every year in the UK, hundreds of people are injured — often because of simple mistakes that could have been avoided. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned fireworks fan, learning what not to do is just as important as knowing what to buy.

Here are five common fireworks mistakes and how to avoid them for a safe, spectacular night.

1. Buying from Unlicensed or Unknown Sellers

The mistake:
Many people try to save money by buying fireworks from unlicensed street vendors, online marketplaces, or even social media sellers. These fireworks might not meet UK safety standards — meaning they can misfire, explode incorrectly, or fail to light at all.

How to avoid it:
✅ Always buy from licensed UK retailers.
✅ Look for the CE or UKCA safety mark on packaging.
✅ Avoid suspiciously cheap deals that seem “too good to be true.”

Tip: Reputable UK online stores (like Epic Fireworks or Dynamic Fireworks) ensure all products are fully tested and compliant with UK safety laws.

2. Not Reading the Instructions

The mistake:
It’s easy to think all fireworks work the same way — light the fuse and step back. But different types (cakes, rockets, fountains, etc.) have different setup requirements and safety distances. Skipping the instructions is one of the most common — and dangerous — mistakes.

How to avoid it:
✅ Read the label before lighting anything.
✅ Follow recommended safety distances — usually between 5–25 metres depending on the firework size.
✅ Set up fireworks on a flat, stable surface free of debris or grass.

3. Standing Too Close

The mistake:
Many people underestimate how far fireworks travel or how much space is needed. Standing too close increases the risk of burns, debris injuries, and hearing damage.

How to avoid it:
✅ Always follow the distance guidelines printed on the packaging.
✅ Keep spectators, children, and pets well behind the lighting area.
✅ Use ropes or markers to set clear boundaries.

Remember: Even sparklers burn at over 1,000°C — that’s hot enough to melt metal!

4. Trying to Relight a Dud

The mistake:
If a firework doesn’t go off, many people try to relight it — which can be extremely dangerous. A misfired fuse may still be burning internally and could ignite suddenly.

How to avoid it:
✅ Never go back to a lit or dud firework.
✅ Wait 15–20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water before disposal.
✅ Store unused fireworks safely away from the launch area.

5. Ignoring Weather and Environment

The mistake:
Windy, rainy, or crowded environments can turn a fun display into chaos. Strong winds can blow fireworks off course, while damp conditions may affect fuses.

How to avoid it:

✅ Check the weather forecast before lighting.
✅ Always aim fireworks away from buildings, trees, and spectators.
✅ Have a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies.

Bonus Tip: Mind the Time and Noise

In the UK, fireworks can legally be used until 11 pm, extended to midnight on Bonfire Night and 1 am on New Year’s Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year.

Also, consider your neighbours and pets — opt for low-noise fireworks if you’re celebrating in a residential area.

Final Thoughts

Fireworks are one of life’s great joys — when used safely. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you’ll protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community, while still enjoying a dazzling display.

Always buy from licensed UK retailers, follow safety instructions, and never cut corners when it comes to firework safety. The result? A night that sparkles for all the right reasons.