Fireworks are synonymous with winter’s dark evenings and all of the festivities rolling into January. While this is certainly a season to be enjoyed, the beloved tradition of fireworks also tends to open up potential for injuries, fires and home insurance claims year-on-year.
Personal use of over-the-counter fireworks is deemed a bad idea by most landlords, and many will choose to include a specific clause in the tenancy agreement stating that bonfires or fireworks are prohibited on the property.
Even if such clauses do not exist in the agreement, it will most certainly state that tenants
must not cause any nuisance or aggravation to neighbours, engage in anti-social behaviour, or cause any damage to the property.
Whether you enjoy the dazzling firework season or you prefer the peace and quiet, we think this advice will help you make the best choices this year as a tenant…
Local firework displays
Every year, there are an average of 552 fireworks accidents, which is why the UK fire brigade recommends that people attend events that are properly organised.
Don’t be disheartened if you’re unable to throw a party of your own this New Year, as firework season is a fantastic opportunity to get to know your local area
and neighbours, and discover some spectacular local events that you may not have been aware of.
Particularly if you’ve moved to a new location, occasions like bonfire night, Christmas and New Year are important for creating those social bonds we all need to really feel at home.
Have a look online for events nearby, keep an eye out for flyers around the area, and consider inviting your neighbours or any friend’s you’ve made since moving
in.
Talk to your neighbours
Prevention is better than cure when it comes to disputes with neighbours, so it’s always good to ask about their plans for fireworks beforehand, especially if the noise has potential to become an inconvenience.
Keeping the noise out
If fireworks aren’t your thing, you have to get up early for work, or if your children and pets aren’t too keen, there are ways of soundproofing without damaging your rental property.
White noise machines work by playing broad-band noise signals on a constant, which are non-distractive and will drown out other sounds in your immediate environment that might interfere with your sleep. You can also download apps on your phone with the same function, and these are usually free.
If bright lights are a problem, you can swap out your curtains for a thicker material, as this will help to block out some of the street noise as well as any distracting flashes of light.
Keep kids and pets indoors
If you live in the city, you may be surrounded by a lot of events and excited neighbours over this season. Unfortunately for our pets, loud bangs and unexpected flashes create a less than ideal environment to relax in and feel safe.
It’s a good idea to make sure they have had a walk or time outside during daylight hours so they can be kept safe indoors in the evening. You can also create hiding places around your home where they can retreat to by using blankets and cushions, or clearing room under tables and between furniture.
It’s best to ensure that young children stay indoors in the evenings as the dark draws in much faster this time of year, allowing fireworks to start early. It may help to let them to burn off some steam when the sun is still out by taking them to a park or a daytime activity, so that they don’t feel too cooped up and over-energised in the evening.
It’s also much safer for children to attend an organised event than a party at-home, but make sure they are always supervised and there are plenty of cold buckets of water nearby for sparklers!
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