Bonfire Night is full of fun: the pops and bangs as fireworks explode in the night sky, the crackle of a warm, glowing bonfire and the sticky sweet delight of a toffee apple.

But November 5 can also end in injury and accident if the right safety measures aren't taken.

And it's not just yourselves you need to protect — Bonfire Night can be a stressful night for household pets who don't understand what all the racket is about.

Here are some top tips for staying safe this Bonfire Night:

How to light fireworks safety

  1. Lay out the firework while it's standing on its bottom or stand. Make sure there are no flammable materials or plants nearby.
  2. Warn people you are about to light the firework.
  3. Once the firework is lit, make sure noone is in the area of the firework and walk away.
  4. After the firework has been lit, place the extinguished firework in a bucket or water.
  5. When the night is over, it is safe to put the wet fireworks in the bin.

Make sure fireworks are marked with British Standard number BS 7114.

Bonfire night dos and don'ts

Huddersfield Pendragon Round Table bonfire and fireworks display at Crosland Hill.
  • DO stand far away from both the fire and the fireworks.
  • DON'T go near a firework after it has been lit.
  • DO light only one sparkler at a time and do so at arms length.
  • DON'T use sparklers without wearing gloves.
  • DO keep your cat and dog inside on Bonfire Night
  • DON'T give sparklers to under-fives.
  • DO check a bonfire for hiding pets or wild animals before it is lit.
  • DON'T keep the bonfire in the way of things such as trees and buildings.
  • DO keep a bucket of water ready for emergencies.
  • DON'T light fireworks after 11pm as this is illegal.

You can always go to a professional bonfire and firework display instead — click here to see what's happening in Huddersfield!

Keeping pets safe

Keep your pets safe this Bonfire Night
Keep your pets safe this Bonfire Night
  • Dogs will need a good walk before the evening. For smaller pets, make sure they have everything they need for the night.
  • Close all windows and curtains so the sounds of the explosions are reduced. Turn on the television or radio to help distract pets from the noise.
  • If your dog or cat is hiding under furniture, or in a corner, leave them there — trying to prise them out will only make them more frightened.
  • Make sure your pet has a microchip fitted by the vet — if your pet does run away, they can be returned to you.

Health issues

If you suffer from a heart problem, asthma or bronchitis it may be a better idea to enjoy the fireworks from inside.

Turning off your lights inside will help you to see them better.

Remember to stay warm

Huddersfield Pendragon Round Table bonfire and fireworks display at Crosland Hill.

It's cold in November, and while you'll be having fun, standing around in the dark can be a bit nippy. Wrap up warm with thick socks, hats, jumpers, coats and scarves.

For more bonfire night advice, visit http://www.bonfire-night-safety.co.uk/