Tips from the Team | First Aid for Fireworks: Keeping People & Pets Safe This Guy Fawkes

Guy Fawkes Night might sparkle with colour, but it’s also one of the busiest nights of the year for burns, stress, and panicked pets. Whether you’re lighting a few sparklers in the backyard or watching neighbours’ displays, a little preparation keeps everyone safe.💥

And let's not forget, mother nature puts on a pretty good light display herself from time to time.

Sunset, taken in Wigram 2017

Guy Fawkes Fireworks First Aid for People

Burns & Sparks: Keep a bucket of cool water or the hose handy.

If someone’s burned;

• Cool with running water for 20 minutes. (Cool the burn | Warm the person).

• Clear away anything that could cause constriction if the burn swells. Don't remove anything that is stuck to the skin though! Cool over the top of it.

• Cover with cling film or a clean non-stick dressing, see if doctor if bigger than $2 coin.

• Call 111 for large or deep burns, burns to the face or burns that wrap all the way around a body part.

• Don’t use ice, butter, creams or toothpaste.

Eye Injuries: If debris or sparks hit the eye, don’t rub. Rinse gently with clean water for 10 minutes and seek urgent care if pain or vision problems persist.

Smoke or Fumes: Move into fresh air, loosen clothing, and monitor breathing. If they’re coughing, dizzy, or wheezing, call 111.

Noise Protection: Fireworks can exceed 150 decibels – offer ear protection, especially for kids.

⚡ Sensory or Health Conditions

Flashing lights and loud bangs can trigger seizures or distress for those with photosensitive epilepsy, autism, or post-concussion sensitivities.

• Watch from farther away or behind windows.

• Avoid staring at flashing bursts.

• Tinted or polarised glasses can help reduce glare.

• Have a quiet indoor space ready if needed.

If a seizure occurs, keep the person safe, don’t restrain them during the seizure. When it's finished, roll them onto their side, keep them warm and monitor.

Call 111 if it lasts more than five minutes or it’s their first episode.

🐾 Fireworks & Pets

• Safe Space: Keep pets indoors with curtains closed, lights on, and gentle music to mask noise.

• ID Up-to-date: Microchips and tags help if they bolt.

• Stay Calm: Speak softly; don’t over-comfort.

• Walk Early: Before dark and before the first bangs begin.

Vet Help – If pets shake, drool, or hide for hours, call your vet or an after-hours clinic.

🔥 Before You Light Anything

• Check fire risk levels (especially in Canterbury).

• Never let children handle fireworks unsupervised.

• Light one at a time, standing well back.

• Keep fireworks away from alcohol and soak used ones in a bucket of water or sand before disposal.

Guy Fawkes should light up the night, not prompt a 111 Call. With a bit of planning, cool water, and calm energy, you can keep the sparkle safe for everyone - people and pets alike.

About the Author:

This article was written by Gail, extreme gardener and head of training at City First Aid. You can read more about Gail Here. You can meet the rest of the team HERE

City First Aid – Where every learner matters.📍 Christchurch | Rangiora | Hanmer | Kaikōura