London Fire Brigade warns public to avoid DIY fireworks after spate of Halloween incidents

Londoners are being urged to follow a London Fire Brigade fireworks warning and attend organised Bonfire Night displays after crews dealt with dozens of dangerous incidents over Halloween weekend.

The brigade said it was called to 27 firework-related incidents in a single weekend, including fireworks being set off inside blocks of flats in Park Royal and Muswell Hill, a balcony fire in Tulse Hill and a house fire in Ilford.

Since the start of October, the LFB has handled more than 60 calls linked to fireworks, including trees, sheds and bushes being set alight in Ruislip, Erith and Dagenham.

A spokesperson said: “As we approach Bonfire Night, we want to remind Londoners that fireworks are explosives and should be treated with respect. When you misuse fireworks, it risks lives and takes resources away from other emergencies across the capital.”

The brigade is asking residents to go to organised public events, which it says will be safer, cheaper and better controlled. A list of displays across London is published on the brigade’s site and the full guidance can be read on the official fireworks safety page.

Some of the incidents over the weekend involved fireworks being used in communal areas, close to homes and even near a hospital in Hampstead. Firefighters warned that setting off fireworks from balconies is especially dangerous.

The LFB reminded Londoners that misusing fireworks is illegal. Offenders can face up to six months in prison and an unlimited fine. Fireworks must not be sold to anyone under 18 and buyers are advised to check for the CE mark.

Parents are being encouraged to speak to children and teenagers about the risks and to follow the Fireworks Code, which includes not drinking alcohol while setting off fireworks, never returning to a lit firework and keeping a bucket of water nearby. Children under five should not be given sparklers.

The brigade also pointed to the Bonfire Night curfew, which is midnight in London, and called on people to consider neighbours, pets and nearby buildings if they still plan to let off fireworks at home.

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