Fireworks night can be a real joy for the whole family, as the night sky is lit up with incredible light displays across the UK, but while fireworks are amazing to watch they can be noisy and scary for young children, which is why it's important to take precautions, like investing in a pair of baby ear defenders.
At what age can you take a child to fireworks?
You can take babies to firework displays at any age, though it's recommended to wait until they are at least six months old so they can better handle the experience and their sensitive ears are protected. However, you know your baby best and it depends on their temperament. If you are planning to visit a fireworks display with your little ones, ensure the night goes off with a bang and follow our expert firework safety tops to ensure a safe and comfortable night for all.
8 firework safety tips for kids and babies
1) Invest in ear defenders
Your baby’s ears are super sensitive and the noise of the fireworks will probably be the loudest noise they've ever heard. If the fireworks are being set off in a small place such as a garden, keep them inside and let them watch from a window.
Fireworks produce loud bangs which can reach up to 150 decibels and babies have more sensitive ears than adults, so if you're venturing out to a display, their ears must be protected. Ear defenders not only reduce external noise to a safe level but also help ensure babies feel safe and calm during all the commotion.
If you still think it’s too noisy, try watching the lights from inside your car with your baby to muffle the sound even more.
Our favourite overall ear defender on the market is the Alpine Muffy baby ear defenders, £26 which offer a secure and comfortable fit, work well to save your little one's ears and peace and are rated five stars by customers online. Check out our full guide to the best ear defenders here.
Mother&Baby2) Keep your baby with you at all times
When fireworks are being set off or there’s a bonfire nearby, don’t let go of your child for even a second. If you need a bathroom break, take them with you or put them safely in the arms of a relative or friend you can trust.
3) Avoid using sparklers
Sparklers may look child-friendly and make pretty patterns but they can reach temperatures of 982°C and are not suitable for under-fives.
If you do decide to give your child a sparkler, always help them hold it away from their face, clothing and hair and make sure they're wearing gloves to protect their hands.
4) Watch from a safe distance
At public displays, there is usually a safety line that you should stay behind and if you’re in a private garden then keep as far away as possible from where the fireworks are set off. The same rules apply to bonfires, which can get really hot and make your baby uncomfortable.
5) Keep your baby warm
Despite the bonfire, chances are that the night air will be pretty chilly so keep your tot wrapped up warm. Layers such as a winter coat, hat, scarf and gloves combo should do the trick!
6) Buy legal fireworks
If you're planning on buying fireworks for your own home display, make sure you buy them from a reputable source. Legal fireworks will be clearly marked with the manufacturer's name and logo. Before using them, store them in a cool, dry place that your tot can’t reach.
7) Keep water nearby
Have a bucket of water and hose on standby in case any of the fireworks cause accidents. And soak all of the firework leftovers in a bucket of water before throwing them away.
8) Be prepared to leave the display early
Some babies are mesmerised by fireworks but others get really upset by all the noise, bright lights and crowds of people, so it’s a good idea to have an escape plan (and route) in mind. Alternatively, there's plenty of fun to be had by staying home and enjoying some bonfire night crafts instead.
A journalist since 2015, Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby and has written for the website and previously the magazine for seven years. First-time mum to Theodore, Emily writes about everything from the top baby products to pregnancy, fertility and maternal mental health. Specialising in product reviews, Emily is the first to know about all the exciting new releases in the parenting industry.