Remember, Remember the 5th of November!!!

Remember remember the fifth of November

Gunpowder, treason and plot.

I see no reason why gunpowder, treason

Should ever be forgot...

I love Bonfire Night! it is probably my second favourite celebration after Christmas. We don't celebrate Halloween but we try to go see the fireworks every year if possible. When I was little we were taught this poem at school about the Gunpowder Plot of 1605 and I have been teaching the boys it too. So now I have James repeating it over and over but it is pretty cute.

Tonight we had plans to go to a local fireworks display. But last night James had a high temperature and really horrible earache and when we asked him today if he wanted to still go see them he said no so instead we decided that we would have a few fireworks of our own at home. To be honest I am pretty pleased we did as the weather has been pretty horrible all day and turned even worse after it go dark. As this is the first time we have ever had our own fireworks we weren't sure on what we needed or how to prepare for them. Luckily for us there was a list of instructions in the box that we purchased.

If you are like us and first time fireworks user please, please, please remember these rules:

• Keep fireworks in a closed box - take one out at a time and replace the lid at once
• Follow the instructions on each firework carefully
• Light each firework at arms length (use the safety firework lighter provided)
• Stand well back
• Keep pets inside

AND REMEMBER:

• NEVER throw fireworks
• NEVER return to a firework once its lit
• NEVER put fireworks in your pocket
• NEVER mess around with fireworks
• NEVER light fireworks if you have been drinking

You should only buy fireworks that conform to UK safety standards. We paid £40 for ours from our local supermarket. You should make sure you read the instructions carefully in daylight so you are familiar with them when its darker. 

Make sure you have:

• A torch for checking instructions
• A bucket of water
• A bucket of earth or sand to stand fireworks in
• Suitable supports for catherine wheels and rockets
• Make sure one person is responsible for setting the fireworks off
• Make sure your spectators are standing a safe distance away

If you have young children like I do then they no doubt would like to have sparklers. If so remember these tips:

• Do not give sparklers to children under 5
• Light one at a time
• Hold sparklers at arm's length
• Wear gloves
• Put sparklers in a bucket of water once the have finished 

Above all Bonfire Night is meant to be a celebration, it is meant to be enjoyed. Just remember to do so safely. 

We have had a great night, I hope you and your family do too.