States of Guernsey

10/19/2021 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/19/2021 05:55

Islanders are reminded of firework display requirements and etiquette

Tuesday 19 October 2021

Islanders preparing to hold a firework display, no matter how small, are reminded to declare their event and to follow the guidance in relation to safety, etiquette and animals.

Information on upcoming events is available on www.gov.gg/fireworks. Please note that this may not be a complete list. You can also use this webpage to sign up to receive SMS notifications about upcoming displays.

Holding an Event

If you hold your own event, the designated day is Friday 5th November,while Saturday 6th Novemberis the reserve day if the weather is unsuitable on 5th November. Keep your display to the designated day(or reserve day) and within the reasonable hours of 6.30 - 8.30pm.

Fireworks have the potential to distract and confuse aircrews or damage aircraft during flight operations. Depending on the location of the event you may be required to notify the airport of any intended release or use of fireworks. Full details can be found here.

You should also complete this event form which will help inform your neighbours and animal owners about potential noise. You can either mark the event as 'private' or as 'public' if you want to encourage visitors. If you change the date of your display, it is your responsibility to re-notify using the same form.

It is good etiquette to let your neighbours know what you are planning. If there is livestock in nearby fields let the owners know what you are doing 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.

Safety

Always read the manufacturer's instructions before purchase and use. Simple precautions save injuries and damage; always follow the Fireworks Code. Ensure you dispose of firework waste responsibly. Further safety advice can be found here.

Animals

It is important to keep sensitive pets in a safe and secure environment that will ideally muffle the sounds. However, animals must not be confined to small spaces as confinement heightens their anxiety. For instance, keep your dog in the house, draw the curtains, turn up the television but let the dog wander from room to room as it wants.

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 dissuade wildlife from entering the bonfire prior to it being lit - this fence should be removed just prior to lighting the bonfire.

More advice relating to animals can be found here.