Stay safe this Halloween and Bonfire Night

If you're celebrating Halloween, Bonfire Night, Diwali, New Year's Eve, Chinese New Year or other seasonal festivities this year, please take a few simple steps to help keep yourself, your family and your community safe.

If you're heading out trick-or-treating, remember that not everyone will welcome a knock at the door. Please be considerate of your neighbours, particularly older or more vulnerable residents who may find unexpected callers unsettling.

If you're planning a fireworks display at home, think about the safety and wellbeing of those around you, including pets and local wildlife. Here are some helpful tips:

• Be considerate of neighbours, especially those who may be sensitive to loud noises or bright flashes. If possible, set off fireworks earlier in the evening. Remember, fireworks must not be used after midnight on Bonfire Night, or after 11pm on most other days.
• Only buy fireworks from reputable retailers and remember that you must be 18 or over to purchase or possess them.
• Consider choosing low-noise or silent fireworks to minimise disturbance to people and animals.
• Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Light fireworks at arm's length using a taper and stand well back immediately.
• If you're building a bonfire, site it well away from fences, sheds, trees and areas where children may be playing.
• Never use petrol, paraffin or methylated spirits to start or revive a bonfire.
• Keep spectators at a safe distance from both bonfires and fireworks at all times.
• When using sparklers, wear gloves, hold them at arm's length and supervise children carefully.
• Help pets feel secure by closing windows and curtains and using music or television to reduce the impact of firework noise. Please also be mindful of nearby horses and livestock.
• When the celebrations are over, make sure bonfires are fully extinguished using water and clear away any debris to help protect local wildlife, pets and the environment.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) offers further guidance on staying safe around fireworks: RoSPA- Firework safety tips | RoSPA

You can also find advice on helping pets stay safe and comfortable during celebrations from:

RSPCA: Fireworks - RSPCA - rspca.org.uk

PDSA: Pets and fireworks - PDSA

British Hedgehog Preservation Society: Page not found - The British Hedgehog Preservation Society

Looking for a public fireworks display in Surrey? Visit:  Fireworks & Bonfire Night in Surrey 2026 | Guide to Firework Events taking place | Visit Surrey