Firework etiquette advice from the States

Saturday 29 October 2022

With one week to go until bonfire night, anyone planning on holding a firework display is asked to declare their event so neighbours are aware of it.

With 5 November falling on a Saturday this year, it is expected that most events should be held on that date.

If the weather is forecast to be bad on the Saturday then Friday 4 November is the designated 'reserve day'.

It's also requested that any displays are held between18:30 and 20:30.

Anyone planning to set fireworks off, no matter how small their planned display, is asked to register it on the States website at gov.gg/fireworks.

The page is updated with a list of events taking place across the island that have been declared. It may not cover all of the events, but anyone who wishes to be notified can sign up to receive text alerts warning about upcoming displays.

Pictured: The States webpage can be reached HERE.

Anyone planning to set off fireworks near the airport is asked to notify the airport beforehand, along with anyone holding displays near animals or neighbours with pets.

The States spokesperson said: "It is good etiquette to let your neighbours know what you are planning. If there are livestock in nearby fields, please let the owners know what you are planning and avoid setting off fireworks late at night.

"Do not release fireworks in public places (parks, beaches etc.) and ensure you follow the Health & Safety Executive good practice guidance."

As well as firework displays there are guidelines for bonfires. Anyone planning on lighting on is asked to contact the Director of Environmental Health and Pollution Regulation to apply for an exemption.

The States spokesperson said that bonfires should be built as close to the night as possible to protect small anumals.

"If you are having a bonfire, we advise that you do not start creating the bonfire until a day or two before the bonfire is due to be lit, in order to avoid injuring any wild animals, such as hedgehogs, which may utilise bonfires as a place for hibernation. Alternatively, a wildlife- proof fence should be erected around the bonfire to prevent wildlife from entering the bonfire prior to it being lit - this fence should be removed just prior to lighting the bonfire."

Pictured: Hedgehogs may hide in bonfires so you are asked to check before it's lit.

Further advice regarding animals and bonfire night has been issued by the GSPCA.

The charity manager, Steve Byrne said it's a worrying time for livestock and pet owners.

“As we fast approach the 5 November those organising events are registering their events with the States of Guernsey for their and our firework calendar and we are aware of many events on the 5 and at least one on the 4 November.

“Thankfully there is only one retailer selling fireworks this year. The loud bangs and bright lights can often scare animals and we often see an increase in escaped animals during these periods.

“We’d advise dog walkers to avoid taking or letting their animals out during the times of these displays and to ensure windows and doors are closed with curtains shut and music playing or the tv on to help drown out the noise. We have plenty of advice online and have products at the GSPCA on sale that can help.

"Hopefully this firework period and those watching the fireworks can enjoy them and at the GSPCA we want to make sure all of our animals in Guernsey will be safe and well.”