With bonfire night fast approaching, our Health and Safety Manager, Ben, has been working with care teams to ensure they’ve got what they need to provide a safe, calm, and inclusive environment for the people we support to enjoy fireworks and sparklers should they wish to.
At Bright Futures, we empower people with autism and associated complex needs to live life to the fullest, which means supporting them to enjoy bonfire night activities safely and positive risk taking, rather than avoiding activities all together.
Autism and Fireworks
For some, the loud noises and unexpected nature of bonfire night and fireworks can be distressing, but for others it’s a chance to watch a display of bright colours as they light up the November night sky. What’s important to remember is that each and every one of the people we support is different.
- Sensory strategies:
Things like ear defenders are a great way to reduce or block out the loud noises associated with fireworks. Did you know that ‘low noise fireworks’ are becoming more and more popular due because of the distress they can cause.
Other sensory therapy and tools can also be used to ease anxieties, like weighted blankets and other sensory toys. Ensuring people have access to a familiar environment that is comforting whether that be with a view of fireworks for those that want to take part, or away from them for those that don’t.
- Planning:
Build them into the planning process, whether that be through social stories, decorating the house, or creating a clear schedule can empower them to make decisions and help build excitement.
- Set a consistent example:
If you’re hosting or attending any bonfire events or activities, everyone needs to create a positive build-up prior to the event. We know that they aren’t for everyone, but having a confident and reassuring message that is consistent at each interaction can help ease those anxieties and create a calm environment.
Here are some tips on how to use sparklers safely:
- Sparklers burn at around 2000 degrees. They should never be given to children under the age of 5, as they aren’t able to understand the risks or how to use them safely.
- Wear gloves when handling sparklers.
- Hold sparklers at arm’s length while lighting and light them one at a time.
- Don’t wave sparklers close to other people or hold a child if you have a sparkler in your hand.
- Put finished sparklers into a bucket of water as soon as they have burnt out; they can stay hot for a long time.
- Always supervise young people using sparklers and educate them on how to use them safely – holding them away from their body and at arm’s length.
- Don’t run or play near sparklers.
