DRIVERS have been warned over a common bonfire night driving mistake that could result in a whopping £300 fine.
With fireworks night nearing, motoring experts at Swansway Motor Group (SMG) have outlined essential legal and safety measures for drivers to follow.
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Motorists “caught with over 56kg of fireworks without the required licence or registration” risk receiving six penalty points on their licence, a £300 fine and their insurance voided.
Drivers planning to transport fireworks in their vehicles are advised to check with their insurance providers to ensure they have the necessary coverage.
The experts at SMG added that drivers should be wary of moisture building up inside their cars with fireworks inside.
Damp fireworks are at risk of leaking explosive material, making them more unpredictable and potentially dangerous when ignited.
The experts added: “Fireworks should always be supervised in the car, as this increases the risk of them becoming unsafe.”
It is also essential for drivers to keep any combustible materials such as “lighters, matches, electric fan heaters, smoking materials, or electrical installations,” away from the fireworks.
“These items are potential ignition sources and could cause fireworks to ignite unexpectedly if stored together,” they said.
Matt Springhall, Director at SMG added: “Bonfire Night should be a time of joy and celebration, but it’s important that safety remains above all else.
“Not following regulations can have serious consequences, especially surrounding firework transportation and storage.
“The rule isn’t about stifling celebration, but protecting everyone on the road. Sometimes we forget, but fireworks are explosive materials and therefore carry inherent risk.”
The director emphasized that motorists should prioritise the safety of others, especially with fireworks night approaching.
“By taking these precautions seriously, we can ensure that Bonfire Night is a cherished and unforgettable tradition for all the right reasons,” he added.
It comes after revellers were left fuming after 300 cars got stuck in the mud for hours at a Bonfire Night “shambles”.
And here are five of the UK’s best bonfire nights and fireworks displays featuring fairgrounds and a new drone show.
How to let off fireworks safely
The London Fire Brigade has the following advice on letting off fireworks safely:
- Only buy fireworks which carry the CE mark, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time
- Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary
- Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper (a long stick that’s often included in the box with fireworks) and stand well back
- Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
- Never return to a firework once it has been lit
- Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
- Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
- Always keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby in case of emergency
What about bonfires?
If you are planning on holding a bonfire, Grace Dutton, legal adviser at DAS Law, said it’s important to know what you’re burning.
She said: “Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, it is an offence to burn any substance that will release harmful fumes causing pollution to the environment or harm to human health.
“This include plastic, rubber or painted items.”
You also need to make sure that the fire is contained and doesn’t escape causing damage or injury to people.
It is also an offence if anyone on a public road is “injured, interrupted or endangered” by fire or smoke from your bonfire.
