Firework season sparks safety checks across Central Bedfordshire oliver.drackford Tue 03/11/2026 11:35am

3 November 2026

Community safety

As Bonfire Night on 5 November approaches, our Trading Standards team is stepping up its annual inspections of fireworks retailers across the area to help keep residents safe.

From late October through November, Officers will be carrying out visits to local retailers to ensure fireworks are being sold, stored and handled safely and legally. Officers will check that appropriate licences are in place, storage conditions meet legal requirements, and that products comply with UK safety standards.

The inspections form part of our ongoing work to protect consumers and reduce the risks associated with fireworks, particularly as sales increase ahead of Bonfire Night celebrations.

Retailers will also be reminded that it is illegal to sell fireworks to anyone under the age of 18 and that breaches can result in enforcement action.

Councillor Liz Childs, our Executive Member for Public Protection, said: 

Fireworks can be enjoyed safely by families and communities when they are purchased from reputable retailers and used responsibly. Our Trading Standards team carries out inspections every year to help ensure fireworks sold in Central Bedfordshire meet legal safety standards and are stored correctly.

We also want to remind residents to be considerate of others when using fireworks, particularly families with young children, older residents, and those with pets or livestock who may be affected by loud noises. By following the rules and planning ahead, everyone can enjoy the celebrations safely.

Residents are encouraged to buy fireworks only from reputable retailers and to look for the UKCA or CE marking, which indicates that products meet the required safety standards.

Residents who are concerned about handling fireworks themselves may wish to attend a professionally organised community firework display instead.

People should also be aware that it is illegal to set off fireworks in a public place, and fireworks must not be used between 11pm and 7am, except on Bonfire Night when the cut-off is midnight, and on certain other recognised celebrations where extended hours apply.

Anyone who suspects fireworks are being sold illegally or stored unsafely can report their concerns to our Trading Standards team by emailing trading.standards@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.