Fireworks can bring spectacle and fun — but they are explosives, and must be handled responsibly. Following the rules keeps everyone safe and helps you celebrate without risking harm or nuisance.
The Fireworks Act 2004 (Isle of Man) restricts the sale and use of fireworks.
You must be 18 or over to purchase fireworks.
The Act sets out times and circumstances when fireworks may be used, and also that a display might require notice to the Isle of Man Fire & Rescue Service.
The sale and release of sky lanterns and helium-filled balloons are prohibited under the Sky Lanterns and Balloons (Prohibition) Act 2021.
For organised displays, permission may be required — for example displays in Marine Nature Reserves must have a permit.
Only buy fireworks that meet a recognised standard (on the Isle of Man, follow what is advised by the authorities).
Read and follow the instructions on each firework.
Keep fireworks in their box until you are ready to use them.
Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby, and have a hose or other means of extinguishing fire.
Never light fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or in a careless way.
Stand well back when lighting a firework, and never lean over it.
Never return to a firework which has not gone off — treat it as a dud and safely extinguish/dispose.
Sparklers burn at very high temperatures; wear gloves and place used ones in a bucket of water.
Children should not handle fireworks.
Always supervise any use of sparklers by children — ensure they are at a safe distance from others.
Be considerate of pets and local wildlife — fireworks may cause distress to animals.
Make sure the area you are using is free from hazards, and that bystanders are at a safe distance.
If you are lighting a bonfire or organising a display, ensure it is well away from houses, trees, fences, sheds, and overhead wires.
Check the area for wildlife or hidden animals before lighting.
Have extinguishing equipment ready (hose, bucket, sand).
Never use petrol, or paraffin, to set or revive a fire.
According to local guidance, fireworks may only be discharged without prior notification to the Fire & Rescue Service in a specific window: For example around Bonfire Night the rules apply between midnight on the Friday at least two days before 5 November and midnight on the first Monday after Bonfire Night.
If you are holding a public display, you may need to let the Fire & Rescue Service or local authority know.
Make sure you are aware of any local restrictions (for example near nature reserves) and obtain any permit required.
If someone is injured — cool burns with cool running water for at least 10 minutes.
Seek medical help for serious burns or eye injuries immediately.
In an emergency situation, call 999 (or whatever your local emergency number is).
Using fireworks responsibly means you can enjoy a spectacular display while keeping yourself, your friends & family, your pets, and your community safe. On the Isle of Man, the law and guidance are there to help — following them means you celebrate safely, respectfully … and worry-free.
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