A Guide to Using Sparklers Safely This Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night brings a mix of warmth, excitement, tradition, and the cutting through of smoke in the November air. Whether you’re watching the fireworks from the window of your student accommodation or joining a small celebration in the local park, we hope you’ll stay safe.

Sparklers are often part of the fun on Bonfire Night, but they can be dangerous if misused. This guide promises to give you all the info you need to act sensibly and make the most of your night.

What are Sparklers?

Sparklers are essentially handheld fireworks that burn brightly and emit sparks. They’re often mistaken for harmless fun due to their small size; however, they burn at extremely high temperatures (up to 1000°C). This will, of course, cause severe injury if abused; because of this, safety should always come before fun.

How do Sparklers Work?

At a basic level, Sparklers are mini fireworks made with a metal wire that’s coated in a mixture of flammable chemicals. When lit, a chemical reaction takes place to create intense heat and a bright, sparkling light. Here’s the science behind what happens:

• Oxidisers like potassium nitrate supply oxygen to maintain the fire.
• Fuels such as charcoal or sugar keep the sparkler burning at a steady rate.
• Binders like starch hold the chemical mix together on the stick.
• Metal powders such as aluminium or magnesium create the iconic sparks you see flying everywhere.

When the flame reaches the coated part of the wire, these ingredients react together in a controlled burn. The metal powders ignite and shoot out glowing particles, creating the sparkle effect. Because the reaction is concentrated in a small area, temperatures get extremely high very quickly.

How to Use Sparklers Safely

1. Choose a Safe Spot

• Always use sparklers outdoors, in open areas away from flammable materials.
• Stand well clear of others when gently waving one around.

2. Wear Gloves and Hold at Arm’s Length

• Use gloves to protect your hands from sparks and heat.
• Keep the sparkler as far from your body as possible while remaining in control of it.

3. Light One at a Time

• Only ever use one sparkler at a time, and keep the rest in a secure container.
• Never use matches to light them. A long taper or barbecue lighter is much safer.

4. Supervise Children Closely

• Children under five should never hold sparklers.
• Older kids should be supervised at all times and taught proper handling.

5. Dispose of Used Sparklers Properly

• Place burnt our sparklers in a bucket of cold water or sand immediately after using them.
• Never leave them on the ground as they could relight and cause fires.

This report from Merseyside Fire & Rescue further explains the hazards of sparklers and how they can change your life in seconds if used incorrectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t run while holding a sparkler. Tripping or dropping a lit sparkler can injure you and others around you.
• Don’t wave them near faces or eyes as sparks can travel in unexpected directions.
• Don’t presume they’re safe because they’re small. Sparklers are still a type of firework that can cause just as much damage.
• Buy your sparklers from reputable retailers to ensure they are safe and won’t continue burning beyond the part you’re supposed to hold.

Are Sparklers Eco Friendly?

Unsurprisingly, like most fireworks, sparklers aren’t great for the environment. They release metal particles, and sometimes plastic residue. If you’re on the hunt for some greener alternatives, try:

• LED sparklers or glow sticks. They don’t produce any emissions and can be reused every year. They’re also safe to be used indoors, which is helpful if you’re living in the heart of the city.
• Choose sparklers made with paper sticks instead of metal, as they are less harmful when disposed of.

If you care about sustainability, this is an easy Bonfire Night tradition to adapt.

Your Sparkler Safety Checklist

If you’re planning on using sparklers this Bonfire Night, use this helpful checklist to make sure you’ve prepared properly. Take a screenshot and share it with your friends so you know you’re all being responsible.

• Have a bucket of water or sand ready.
• Wearing gloves with your fingertips covered.
• Light one sparkler at a time.
• Supervise any children closely.
• Dispose of safely after using.

Final Thoughts

Bonfire Night is a fun occasion for us all, but that doesn’t mean acting irresponsibly around dangerous fireworks. Sparklers can be magical when handled with care, but lethal when abused. Plan your night, follow the rules laid out in this guide, and you’ll have a safe and memorable 5th November.

Not sure where you’ll be enjoying Bonfire Night next year? Explore our range of locations to find the city you’ll soon be calling home.