Licensees urged to mind safety rules with firework displays

Licensees have been warned to check health and safety regulations with local authorities before holding firework displays at their pubs.

The warning follows news that a Yorkshire licensee has been ordered to pay a total of £2,000 after two spectators were injured by a firework at a Bonfire Night display.

Anthony Lumb of the Salthorn, Oakenshaw, was convicted of breaches of safety legislation when he appeared before Bingley magistrates last month.

The court heard how a firework fell over after it was lit and flew into the crowd at the front of the pub.

There was an inadequate safety zone between the car park where the fireworks were being set off and where spectators were standing, the court was told.

Lumb, of Wakefield Road, Drighlington, had also failed to ask advice from the Health and Safety Executive or Bradford Council before holding his display.

In his defence, Lumb said that it was the firework that was faulty.

Lumb, who has now left the Salthorn, was fined £1,000 and ordered to pay £1,000 costs.

Tony Birchall, spokesman for Safety Advisory Services, based in Staffordshire, said licensees should follow recommended guidelines before holding public firework displays.

Recommendations include:

• employing a professional display organiser for large displays
• contacting the local authority and fire service at least 28 days before the display to inform them of your plans
• ensuring entry is controlled so that the crowd remains manageable
• setting out an emergency plan and nominating a first-aider to co-ordinate it
• having water buckets and fire extinguishers on hand if possible.