Celebrate safely this New Year’s Eve

Celebrate New Year’s Eve safely: tips for a joyful and fire-safe festive season.

Published: 22/12/2025

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We’re wishing everyone a joyful and safe start to the new year. As the festivities approach, let’s keep our celebrations safe for us, our communities and the environment.

Our fire safety tips

Fireworks and bonfires can be a fire hazard if not handled properly, so it’s important to take precautions. Public displays are the safest way to enjoy fireworks. There are many public celebrations and fireworks for New Year's Eve you can go along to.

If you do want to let off fireworks at home, read the Fireworks Code and follow our top tips to stay safe during the festivities.

Here are a few things to be mindful of:

• Never set off fireworks or start fires anywhere near your property, including in the garden or on balconies
• Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark. Keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time
• Light the firework at arm's length with a taper and stand well back
• Never return to a firework once it’s been lit
• Don't put fireworks in your pockets and never throw them

Choose eco-friendly alternatives

Fireworks can be distressing for pets and wildlife, due to loud noises and bright lights.

Here are a few things you can do to keep the local wildlife and any pets safe:

• Keep pets indoors and avoid bringing them along to any displays
• Silent fireworks provide the same visual excitement without the loud noises that can distress animals
• Light shows are a colourful option that avoids air pollution and fire risks, making them a great alternative to traditional fireworks
• Check bonfires for wildlife before lighting it, inspect it thoroughly for hidden animals like hedgehogs that may have sought shelter in the pile

Enjoy your celebrations and stay safe.