In Great Britain Guy Fawkes Night or Bonfire Night is an annual commemoration observed on 5 November involving bonfires and fireworks. We are probably all a bit rusty on the history of today's celebrations. Do school's still talk about the events behind it? As some will know it all started with the events of 5 November 1605, when Guy Fawkes, a member of the Gunpowder Plot, was arrested while guarding explosives the plotters had placed beneath the House of Lords. Celebrating the fact that King James I had survived the attempt on his life, people lit bonfires around London. Months later the introduction of the Observance of 5th November Act enforced an annual public day of thanksgiving for the plot's failure until it was repealed 250 years later!
Towards the end of the 18th century reports appear of children begging for money with effigies of Guy Fawkes and 5 November gradually became known as Guy Fawkes Day.
Most authorities would encourage you today to attend a professional bonfire and firework celebration if possible both on safety grounds as well as cost. There are several in Cheshire West and Chester area and one closer to home at Broomheath Plantation on November 2nd!
However many families are still keen to have a bonfire and let off a few fireworks where they live.
As we start planning the evening here are a few safety points to think about from the Cheshire Fire service to ensure the night ends safely.
Bonfire Safety Advice
Fireworks
Having fireworks at home can be great fun as long as they are used safely. You can let off fireworks until midnight on Bonfire Night.
If you are putting on a home display you should follow some simple steps to make sure that everyone has a good time without getting hurt. Figures have shown that more children than adults get hurt by fireworks.
We want children to enjoy fireworks but they need to know that they can be dangerous if they are not used properly.
Don't buy fireworks from anywhere you're not sure about, such as the back of a van or from a temporary, unlicensed market stall.
Always read the packet carefully and make sure that the fireworks you buy are suitable for the place where you are going to set them off.
See the Cheshire Fire and Rescue servicefor advice on setting fireworks off which is really just common sense.
Some friendly advice to our younger residents-
There are laws about when fireworks can be sold, and to who – as well as the times fireworks can be set off.
If you are under 18, you can't:
It is against the law to:
Having said all the Health & Safety stuff have a great night and stay safe!
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