WHY ARE FIREWORKS ILLEGAL IN THE UK?

Fireworks are used all over the world to celebrate happiness, joy, love and events including New Years Eve, Bonfire Nights, Gender Reveal Parties, Birthdays etc. People from all over the world love to celebrate joyous occasions with a fireworks display. Obviously, the dazzling display and the vibrant colours are worth watching. But the question arises, why are fireworks illegal in the United Kingdom? Here lies the answer.

Fireworks are not completely banned, but some rural and backward areas in the United Kingdom still use it for their celebrations and special occasions.

The laws of Fireworks:

If you want to use fireworks, certain rules and limitations must be followed as well.

Some of the restrictions include:

• Fireworks, if used should only be used at certain time periods for example, they cannot be used after the clock strikes eleven sharp!
• Fireworks are not allowed to light up in hometowns or city areas with greater population. Why? These areas have a high human population which can pose certain risks and put their life in danger if not handled with proper care.
• People above eighteen years of age can buy or sell fireworks.
• While people above eighteen years of age are allowed to buy or sell fireworks, there’s another rule which comes along. Those having a license can only have access to fireworks.
• There are certain variations in fireworks as well. Some are used in small areas which are safe, while some are to be used on a large scale. These large scale fireworks are banned in the UK.

Why the rules?

Why are there such restriction in the United Kingdom and why there should be rules? Here’s a guide.

1. These rules are made for the safety of their own people. Many people without any guidance or any idea on using fireworks tend to use them which risks the life of many individuals. That is why a proper license is required.
2. Many people tend to sell cheaper fireworks attracting many customers not giving them an idea of the hazardous and dangerous chemicals used in them.
3. Fireworks can also worsen the air quality and cause air pollution leading to smog, fires etc.
4. Launching of fireworks can also lead to permanent hearing loss as sometimes it can lead to explosions causing ear damage to many people who are sensitive to loud noises.
5. These fireworks are also illegal for the safety of children as well.

The Vast Impact on Animals and Birds:

Fireworks have a much greater impact on animals than you think

• Think of it this way. Imagine you’re launching fireworks and see birds flying in the sky. Won’t they be affected? Yes they would. A lot. These fireworks may risk their lives.
• Fireworks, if launched without any guidance can cause animal burns which is quite dangerous.
• Animals, by hearing the loud voice can cause them to shiver from fear which isn’t quite good.

Fireworks & Mental Health: The correlation

How do fireworks and mental health have a link? Well, many people deal with certain issues such as anxiety,

Obsessive compulsive disorder etc. These people get scared of any explosions and                   sometimes, the voice of fireworks can easily scare them.

Impact On the Country

Fireworks can have a negative impact on the country since many people without any license or permission tend to use them against the rules risking many innocent lives in danger. People use them in cities causing a heavy air pollution and dirt. Many people, without any knowledge on usage and without following any guidelines use them in towns leading to fires and explosions leading to cutting down of trees.

Any other options?

While fireworks may be banned in certain areas in the United Kingdom, what else can you use? Well, there are many options. For a vibrant and mesmerising display, you can have a light show with light sticks, or have a coloured and dancing fountain show or even a laser light show! These are completely safe to use and you can have all the fun you want! While fireworks are definitely an amazing option but as a responsible citizen, it’s better to follow the rules as well rather than breaking them.