Celebrating Guy Fawkes’ failure to blow up the English Parliament in 1605 with fireworks in Kiwi backyards in 2022 is a strange phenomenon but for many families it's a bit of fun and a chance to teach important fire safety lessons. 

Fire and Emergency (FENZ) urges people to be careful when letting off fireworks for Guy Fawkes, as high winds are forecast across the motu.

Community education manager Adrian Nacey said people shouldn’t light fireworks if it’s too windy.

"It only takes a stray firework to start a fire or hurt someone, so if you’re lighting fireworks this Guy Fawkes please take simple precautions to keep everyone safe.

"Fireworks can make a fun celebration, but they can also be dangerous and need to be used responsibly.

"Make sure you have a safe set up... light them in a wide-open space, away from anything that could catch fire and have a bucket of water or hose nearby.

"Ensure your fireworks are pointed at the sky and not at people, pets or anyone’s home.

Adrian said to advise your neighbours if you are setting off fireworks, and keep your pets inside.

"Check local bylaws for the rules around using fireworks in your area.

"Lastly, dispose of your fireworks safely and soak them in water before you throw them out."

Adrian said everyone needs to do their part to help keep the community safe this Guy Fawkes.

"You don’t want to be the person responsible for damaging a person, property or the environment by not being careful with fireworks."

For our furry friends the SPCA has tips to minimise the risk of trauma:

• Stay home with your pet – they will be less frightened with you close by
• Keep pets indoors, where possible. Close doors and windows and draw the curtains. Turn on your radio or TV to lessen loud bangs.
• Make sure that your cat or dog has somewhere comforting to hide such as an igloo bed or crate where they can retreat to.
• Exercise your dog early in the day to avoid being out when fireworks could be set off.
• Both cats and dogs should be microchipped and have a collar and tag with your number on it. If your pet runs away, it will help to reunite you both.
• To minimise stress, keep horses and farmed animals in their usual paddocks and with familiar companions unless a fireworks display is planned close by. Make sure all fences are secure and check paddocks and stables thoroughly for anything which could cause injury, such as protruding nails.

Fireworks can be purchased for four days only from November 2-5. If you are buying fireworks ensure you store them correctly in a cool, dry place, away from tamariki and anything flammable. 

For fireworks safety tips visit FENZ’s web page.