Shropshire fireworks display organisers must plan responsibly to
make sure their event goes smoothly.
And with health and safety guidelines getting tighter every
year, a local expert has warned that event organisers must take the
rules seriously.
Matt Reeves leads the Health and Safety division at Newport and
Shrewsbury-based insurance broker Henshalls.
"Anyone who is organising a major public event will obviously
need a robust and detailed approach to planning, as well as support
from professional fireworks specialists.
"And although the same level of detail is not expected for a
local display such as those organised at sports clubs, schools or
by parish councils, you must still plan responsibly."
Matt said organisers of any kind of display were required to
show that the fireworks they were using had been bought from
legitimate retailers, and that they conformed to safety
standards.
"They also have an obligation to warn neighbours well in advance
of any planned activity, and must ensure that no fireworks are set
off between 11pm and 7am. Bonfires must also be at least 60ft from
the nearest houses, hedges, fences, or sheds, so think carefully
about where you want to build your fire before you start.
"And although it's not required by Health and Safety law, if you
are holding a public firework display, it's a good idea to have
public liability insurance, just in case the worst happens."
For major displays, particularly those involving category four
"professional" fireworks or very large numbers of spectators, Matt
said event organisers must pay attention to even the smallest
details.
"Plan and mark out the areas for spectators, firing fireworks
(including a safety zone around it), and an area where the
fireworks will fall.
"Consider how people will get into and out of the display, and
always ensure emergency vehicles can get access to all areas of the
site.
"Fireworks displays should be spectacular and fun for everyone,
but to achieve that result, it's crucial that event organisers take
time before the big day to plan out exactly what will happen."
For more information about Henshalls, please visit their website
here: www.henshalls.com