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Ahead of Bonfire Night tonight, Brits may not be aware they could face fines or even imprisonment for not obeying certain rules.
According to UK law, it’s prohibited to set off fireworks after midnight on November 5, one hour later than the usual cut-off at 11pm.
It’s also illegal to set off or throw fireworks, including sparklers, in the street or public places. Check with your council for local regulations.
Fireworks and sparklers for private use, which are on sale strictly between October 15 to November 10, must be bought from registered sellers. At other times only licensed shops can sell them.
On the potential punishment, the Government website confirms: “You can be fined an unlimited amount and imprisoned for up to 6 months for selling or using fireworks illegally. You could also get an on-the-spot fine of £90.”
It’s also illegal to buy “adult” category 2 and 3 fireworks if you’re under 18. The term “adult” excludes explosives such as party poppers.
Category 4 fireworks can only be used by professionals.
You can also purchase fireworks for private use from registered sellers for New Year’s Eve between 26 to 31 December, and three days before Diwali and Chinese New Year. On these special days, the cut-off for setting them off is 01:00 am.
Bonfire Night marks the night Guy Fawkes tried to blow up London’s Houses of Parliament in 1605, because of a plot to kill King James I.
The first Bonfire Night on November 5 1606 acted as a warning against committing treason.
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