KeepSafe!
As much as we all enjoy bonfire night here at WorkSafe, we are also aware of the dangers and risk of terrible injuries to people. If you are planning an evening of celebrations at home, here are some handy pointers to keep you safe and free from injury:
- The legal timeframes for lighting fireworks changes for different occasions, make sure you know what times you can legally light them.
- Keep children and young people at a safe distance from the fireworks.
- Refrain from drinking alcohol whilst setting up, lighting and disposing of the fireworks.
- Purchase fireworks that have the CE or UKCA mark.
- Familiarise yourself with the instructions on each firework and keep them in a closed box.
- Preferably using a long length lighter, light the firework at arm’s length and stand back. Only use one firework at a time.
- Keep the fireworks away from any flammable items or naked flames.
- Never return to a firework that has already been lit.
- Do not throw fireworks.
- Direct the fireworks away from onlookers.
- Ensure you have left the area safe before leaving the area.
How to treat a burn
Using the handy tips above will help to minimise the risk of injury but in the unfortunate event of an accidental burn follow the guidelines for treating burns:
- Cool the burn
Preferably for 20 minutes under cold running water. This is beneficial for up to 3 hours after the incident, although immediate treatment is most effective. Keep the person warm to avoid hypothermia.
- Remove Jewellery and loose clothing
Gently and carefully before the area swells, leave anything that is stuck to the burn.
- Cover the burn
Use a cling film type non-stick dressing and lay on the affected area (not if the burn is to the face) do not wrap it tightly.
Call 999/112 for children and the elderly or for a burn that is larger than 1% of the body.