Drinking is a big part of Bonfire Night for many people, but it can also make the evening more stressful and more dangerous without us even noticing. When alcohol mixes with fireworks and big crowds, accidents can happen way quicker than people expect. This month’s No Regrets blog is all about helping you enjoy Bonfire Night safely and confidently so you wake up the next day without any “why did I do that” moments.

Why alcohol can make Bonfire Night risky

Even small amounts of alcohol can change the way we think and react. Most people do not notice these changes at first, but they matter when you are near fireworks or open flames.

Alcohol can affect:

• Reaction time which makes it harder to move away from a firework if something goes wrong

• Judgement which can lead to riskier choices like standing too close or relighting a firework

• Coordination which is important when you are holding sparklers or carrying hot food

• Awareness which means you might not notice children pets or people walking behind you

Every year loads of accidents happen that could have been avoided. Most of them are not caused by faulty fireworks. They happen because someone was distracted tipsy or overconfident.

Bonfire Night should be fun but it is also a night where being aware really matters.

If you are planning to drink, here is how to stay safer

You do not need to avoid alcohol completely unless you want to. A harm reduction approach can make a huge difference to your night and still let you enjoy everything.

Choose a sober fireworks lead

If you are with a group decide who is handling the fireworks before anyone starts drinking. It is safest when the person lighting fireworks has not had any alcohol.

Set a limit before you start

It is way easier to stay in control if you decide your limit ahead of time. Think about your plans for the night especially if you have responsibilities like hosting supervising children or getting home safely.

Pace yourself with soft drinks

Alternating alcoholic drinks with soft drinks or water helps you stay more aware. It keeps you warm and hydrated too which makes the whole night more comfortable.

Keep your distance from fireworks

Even if you are not the one lighting them make sure you stand back. Distances exist for a reason and alcohol can make people underestimate danger.

Stay warm

Alcohol gives a false sense of warmth which means you might not notice how cold you actually are. Layer up and take breaks indoors if possible.

If you are hosting a Bonfire Night gathering

Hosting is fun but it also comes with responsibility. It helps to plan ahead so you are not dealing with stressful moments when the night gets busy.

Have a clear fireworks area

Set aside a safe space away from crowds houses fences or anything that could catch fire. Make sure guests know where the no-go zone is.

Keep fireworks locked away until they are needed

Out of sight means safer for everyone. It stops curious guests from trying to help especially if they have been drinking.

Offer plenty of non alcoholic drinks

Warm soft drinks like hot chocolate spiced apple or alcohol free mulled punch feel just as cosy. They give people more choice and help keep the night balanced.

Cool sparklers safely

Sparklers stay hot long after they go out. Put a bucket of cold water nearby and make sure everyone uses it.

If you are cutting down or skipping alcohol this year

More and more people are choosing to drink less or not drink at all. Bonfire Night can still feel fun without alcohol and sometimes it is even better because you can enjoy the fireworks fully and stay present.

Here are some ideas:

• Try alcohol free alternatives to keep the cosy vibe

• Go to an organised display where you do not have to worry about lighting anything

• Bring a friend who is also cutting down

• Focus on the food snacks and atmosphere

• Take photos or videos which you can only do safely when sober

You might find that the night feels calmer and more enjoyable especially with the cold weather and big crowds.