Bonfire Night Safety

As the nights grow darker and the air crisper, the anticipation of Bonfire Night begins to spark. It's a time of year when communities come together to celebrate with fireworks, bonfires, and an array of delectable treats. While this festive occasion is undoubtedly a highlight on the calendar, it's crucial for care homes and businesses to approach it with caution. Firework displays bring joy, but they also bring potential fire risks that demand careful consideration. In this blog, we'll delve into Bonfire Night safety, explore the importance of fire risk assessments, and address some common queries surrounding health and safety and insurance.

Q1: Why Are Fire Risk Assessments Vital for Bonfire Night Celebrations?

Conducting a thorough fire risk assessment helps identify potential hazards and ensures that adequate safety measures are in place. Care homes and other businesses hosting firework displays should consider factors like the location of the event, crowd management, and emergency procedures. A robust assessment can mitigate the risk of accidents and fires during the festivities.

Q2. What are my legal requirements?

All businesses currently employing five or more staff must have a fire risk assessment in place under current fire safety legislation. However, from 1^stOctober 2023, new fire legislation came into force to ensure that all businesses regardless of size and staff must have a full fire risk assessment plus have appropriate fire safety arrangements in place.

It's unlikely that your current fire risk assessment covers any special events such as fireworks or bonfire night, so it is highly recommended alongside your main fire assessment that a specific risk assessment is carried out for the event; this is also a legal requirement under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Full training should be given to all employees and volunteers, and all assessments and training must be recorded and fully documented.

Q3: What Should a Fire Risk Assessment for a Firework Display Include?

A comprehensive fire risk assessment for a firework display should cover the following areas:

• Site Safety: Assess the chosen location for the display. Ensure it's far enough away from buildings, trees, and other hazards. Is it large enough for the size of display?
• Crowd Management: Plan crowd control measures to prevent overcrowding and ensure a safe viewing distance from the fireworks. Could any physical security devices be implemented such as barriers?
• Firework Safety: Only use licensed fireworks and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Have a designated area for storing and preparing fireworks. Consider where you are storing fireworks prior to the event, and how they are stored, I.e., in the right type of containers, plus ensuring these cannot be accessed by the general public, other staff and residents. They should not be placed around any highly flammable substances or sources of ignition.  
• Emergency Procedures: Develop clear and effective evacuation procedures and appoint responsible staff members to oversee safety during the display.
• First Aid: Have adequate first aid provisions on-site, and ensure enough staff are trained to respond to injuries.
• Clean up: Ensure a programme is in place for the clean up after the event to properly dispose of debris and to check the site area to ensure it is safe.
• General considerations: Consider the number of spectators at the event and who you may need to contact before the day, such as emergency services or the local council etc. Is there a back-up plan if the event needs to be cancelled on the day due to adverse weather conditions?

This is not an exhaustive list and many other factors may need to be reviewed.

Q4: Does Insurance Cover Firework Displays at Care Homes?

Insurance policies can vary, so it's crucial to review your coverage with your insurer. Many policies will cover firework displays, but they may require specific safety measures to be in place and insurers almost certainly will want to see your carefully considered risk assessment for the event. Always communicate with your insurance provider well in advance of any event to clarify your coverage and make necessary adjustments if needed.

Q5: How Can Care Homes Promote Bonfire Night Safety to Residents and Staff?

Promoting Bonfire Night safety within your care home is essential. Consider the following measures:

• Safety Briefings: Provide residents and staff with information on the risks associated with fireworks and bonfires.
• Designated Viewing Areas: Create safe and accessible areas for residents to enjoy the display without venturing too close to the fireworks.
• Supervision: Assign staff members to monitor the safety of residents during the event.
• Ear Protection: Offer ear protection to residents who may be sensitive to loud noises.
• First Aid Training: Ensure staff and volunteers are trained in basic first aid, so they can respond to any minor injuries promptly.
• Mobility: Consider the mobility of your residents who may need to be moved quickly away from unsafe areas.

Q6: How Can Quality Care Group Help with Fire Risk Assessments?

Quality Care Group specialises in providing support and guidance to care homes, including conducting thorough fire risk assessments. Our team of experts can assist you in preparing for Bonfire Night and other events by identifying potential risks, devising safety strategies, and ensuring your care home is adequately protected. We are here to offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs, so you can focus on providing the best care to your residents. It may be high time to review your complete fire safety approach alongside any specifics relating to Bonfire night.

As Bonfire Night approaches, let's celebrate the season safely. By prioritising fire risk assessments, staying informed about insurance coverage, and promoting safety within our care homes and businesses, we can ensure a memorable and secure experience for residents, staff, and visitors alike.

Why not give our Risk Control Team a call today to discuss more, on 01273 424904 (option 3).