Fireworks can be enjoyed safely when used responsibly and purchased from legitimate retailers. Find out how to buy fireworks safely, who can legally buy them, and how to report concerns about illegal sales or unsafe products.
Buying fireworks safely
If you intend to use fireworks, buy them from a reputable retailer.
Fireworks sold in the UK should:
- carry a UKCA or CE safety marking
- include safety instructions in English
Avoid buying fireworks from unofficial sellers, including:
- market stalls
- car boot sales
- social media marketplaces
- other informal sources
Using fireworks purchased from legitimate retailers helps reduce the risk of injury and helps ensure products meet legal safety standards.
Fireworks sales and the law
There are legal restrictions on who can buy, possess and sell fireworks.
The law:
- prohibits the sale of fireworks to anyone under the age of 18
- prohibits anyone under the age of 18 from possessing fireworks in a public place
- restricts certain categories of fireworks to trained professionals
- prohibit the supply, purchase and possession of excessively loud fireworks over 120 decibels
Reporting concerns about firework sale
You can report concerns about:
- sale of fireworks to children
- unlicensed or illegal sellers
- fireworks that do not meet safety standards
Contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service if you want to report concerns about illegal firework sales or unsafe products.