Bonfire Night Does It Have The Same Spark

‘Remember, remember the 5th of November’ a fun family occasion, full of sparkle and excitement. It is the time of year where families wrap up warm and head to their nearest local organised firework display to enjoy the dramatic spectacle in the sky. However this year, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is likely to have an impact on our plans with no organised firework display events taking place. As a result, people are more likely to consider hosting or attending private events in a garden to celebrate the occasion. With the inherent dangers associated with fireworks, will Bonfire Night really have the same spark this year?

Unfortunately, every year people are injured by fireworks. However, the risk is greater when people have arranged their own private displays at home. Unlike organised public events, small private events are unlikely to be aware of the guidance issued by the Health and Safety Executive, resulting in more injuries being sustained. The injuries which can be sustained due to fireworks are wide ranging and could even be fatal, or life changing.

The common injuries sustained as a result of fireworks are;

To avoid making this Bonfire night a night to remember, safety should be at the forefront of your mind if organising or attending a private firework display.  The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service have issued a Fireworks Code in order to minimise the risk of injury this bonfire night. The code advises to;

If you are injured as a result of a firework at a private event, you may be able to make a claim against the person letting off the firework. However, unlike organisations holding public displays, they are unlikely to have in place insurance to cover the cost of personal injury claims. This could be catastrophic if you sustain life changing injuries. This makes it all the more important to make sure you prioritise your own, and the safety of others if attending a private firework display, to ensure your night does not end in a bang. It may be that you have been injured as a result of a faulty firework. In that instance, you may be able to pursue a claim for compensation against the manufacturer of the firework.

If you sustain a firework injury that is not your fault, it is important that you seek expert legal advice in relation to making a claim.   have a dedicated team of specialist lawyers who are ready to assist you with your claim. To find out more information about pursuing a personal injury claim, please contact us on 0141 375 1222 where our highly experienced, are on hand to help.