Bonfire Night Safety

Bonfire Night is a wonderful opportunity to make special family memories, whether you're heading to a fireworks display or enjoying the evening at home. To help you celebrate safely with your little ones, we've put together a few simple tips to keep everyone happy, comfortable and safe.

Sparklers: Have you heard of the carrot trick?

By pushing the handle of an unlit sparkler into a large carrot, you create a longer handle, helping to keep hands a little further away from the hot metal.

While this can make sparklers easier for older children to hold, it doesn't make sparklers safe for young children. Sparklers burn much hotter than many people realise and can cause serious burns in an instant.

If older children are using sparklers, remember to:

• Stay close and supervise them at all times

• Encourage them to hold sparklers at arm's length

• Remind them not to run or wave sparklers around

• Pop used sparklers straight into a bucket of cold water or sand and leave them there until they're completely cool

  

  
  

For babies and younger children, glow sticks or battery-operated light-up wands are a much safer way to join in the fun.

Bonfire Night treats

Bonfire Night wouldn't be the same without some tasty treats, but it's worth remembering that some traditional favourites aren't suitable for little ones.

Hot dogs and sausages should never be served whole, as their round shape makes them a choking risk, so always cut them into small, age-appropriate pieces.

Toasting marshmallows is another Bonfire Night favourite tradition for many, but their soft sticky texture can be difficult for young children to manage safely, so they're best avoided for babies and younger children.

Looking after little ears

Fireworks are exciting, but they can also be incredibly loud. Some children love every bang and sparkle, while others may find the noise a little overwhelming.

You can help by:

• Bringing children's ear defenders if you have them

• Watching from a safe distance or choosing a quieter spot in a near by area

• Offering plenty of cuddles and reassurance if your child feels worried

• Remembering that it's absolutely okay to watch the fireworks from indoors. For many little ones, it's just as magical and much more comfortable!

  
  

If a burn happens

Even with careful supervision, accidents can happen. Knowing what to do can make all the difference.

If your child suffers a burn:

• Cool the burn under cool running water for 20 minutes

• Don't use ice, butter, oils or creams

• Remove loose clothing near the burn if it isn't stuck to the skin

• Cover the cooled burn loosely with cling film or a clean dressing

• Seek medical advice for any burn involving a child

• Call 999 immediately if the burn is serious or you're worried about your child's condition

Making magical memories

Bonfire Night doesn't have to mean standing around a bonfire or watching a fireworks display. Some families love heading out to local events, while others prefer a quieter evening at home with cosy blankets, a favourite film with a hot chocolate or reading a story together. Whatever your Bonfire Night looks like, we hope it's filled with fun, laughter and special moments together. Most importantly, we hope you all have a safe and happy evening.

From everyone at Rosedene Nurseries have a magical Bonfire Night!