Guy Fawkes' Night is a wholly British affair mostly celebrated in this country, although one or two former former colonies still adhere to the tradition.
The tradition of burning a guy and setting off fire works on November 5th dates back to the eponymous Mr Fawkes' failed attempt in 1605 to blow up the Houses of Parliament and with them King James 1 in the hope of bringing Protestant Britain back into the Catholic fold. Interestingly an Act of Parliament passed soon after the attempt made it "compulsory to celebrate the deliverance of the King of England, Scotland and Ireland" on every 5th November and which was not repealed until 1859. I don't know what it was like in the mid-19th Century, but nowadays no such act is necessary to encourage people to celebrate 5th November which is one great big party!
And so Guy Fawkes' Night is fun! But there are dangers asscociated with fireworks which everyone should be aware of. If used properly fireworks are safe, but more than half of accidents on November 5th happen to children and they, in particular, MUST be made aware of these dangers. Adults are also at risk and so a few safety tips if you are planning to hold your own celebration.
Sparklers always look pretty and seem safe, but they get very hot indeed, much hotter even than cooking oil, and should not be given to children under 5.
Always buy your fireworks from a reputable retailer and make sure that they have BS7114 printed on the box as this will ensure that they conform to British Standards.
Never buy fireworks if you think that they, or the person selling them, may be suspect - even if it means saving a few pounds. It isn't worth it.
Fireworks are categorised from 1-4. The public is mostly allowed to buy and set off those in categories 1,2 and 3 - but always read the packet carefully and ensure that where you intend to set them off is a suitable environment for what's in the box.
If anyone tries to sell you Category 4 fireworks, don't part with your money - they are meant for professional displays and as such can only be handled by professionals.
Only one person should set off the fireworks and they should take the necessary precautions to ensure maximum safety for themselves and their spectators.
It may seem obvious but get everythng ready well before it gets dark and make sure you have read the instructions thoroughly and in daylight.
While you are setting off the fireworks ensure that you have a torch, a couple of buckets of water, eye protection and gloves, a bucket of soft earth in which to put the fireworks, suitable supports and launchers for any catherine wheels or rockets you may have.
Resist the temptation to have an alcoholic drink until after the display, when you are safely back with your guests and can raise a toast to "the deliverance of the King of England, Scotland and Ireland"!
Remember, it's not only your children, other family members and friends you need to protect, but also your pets. Keep all your pets safely in the house - they will be afraid of the noise and general heightened activity.
Have a wonderful and safe Fireworks Night wherever you are in and around Maidstone.
until next time...