How to keep your child safe at a fireworks display
Bonfire Night is always a great family night get together, but make sure you're aware of potential dangers...
Bonfire Night / Guy Fawkes Night is a very big sensory time for very young children, as there are lots of different things going on: lights, strobes, colours, loud explosions and bright flashes often all happening at once.
And although it's a really fun night, and a super exciting time, it’s important to be careful about keeping young children safe.
If you're going to a big public display there are bound to be lots of crowds, so you'll want to make sure you stick together. Here are some other tips on making sure your children are safe for Bonfire Night.
4 ways to keep your child safe at a fireworks display
1. Protect your child's ears
When attending a fireworks display remember to protect your small children’s ears. Displays tend to be very loud registering 140dB, which may be loud enough to cause hearing loss.
Sounds of 80dB and above can affect babies and small children’s hearing development. Ear muffs are good for use on babies and toddler, however, there is no ear protection for newborns. For more, take a look at our recommendations of baby ear defenders.
Ear plugs are not advisable for babies and toddlers, as they can damage their ear canals and could potentially become a choking hazard if they find their way into your child’ s mouth.
2. Keep children warm
You are likely to be standing out in the cold for a fair amount of time - why is it, that firework displays never seem to start on time. So it’s best to protect your children by making sure their heads, hands and feet are well covered.
3. Keep a safe distance from bonfires
Although they're gorgeously warm and captivating, keep children at a safe distance from small or large bonfires. Crackling bonfires may have sparks that fly out and could land in your child’s eye.
Also, note that wood smoke may contain many noxious chemicals, especially if treated wood is being burnt, which you don't want your child inhaling.
4. Get your children to watch Fireman Sam
The team behind children's TV character Fireman Sam have put together a brilliant set of videos that you may find helpful if you're setting up your own fireworks display.
Get your children to watch them a couple of night's beforehand to make double-sure the safety tips sink in.
Pics: Getty
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