Bay of Plenty residents are being urged to put safety first this Guy Fawkes, with ACC revealing more than 1400 people across New Zealand have been injured by fireworks in the past five years.

The warning comes before Guy Fawkes celebrations on November 5, as ACC launches its “Have a hmmm” campaign encouraging people to think twice before lighting fireworks.

Between 2021 and 2025, ACC accepted 1405 fireworks-related injury claims, costing more than $3.4 million to help injured New Zealanders recover.

ACC injury prevention leader James Whitaker said that while fireworks are a popular family tradition, the consequences of injuries can last much longer than the displays themselves.

“Guy Fawkes should be about creating great family memories, not spending the evening in an emergency department.”

The figures show that around one in four fireworks-related injuries last year involved children aged 10 and under.

Burns were the most common injury, accounting for more than half of all fireworks-related claims in 2025.

Injuries to hands, wrists and fingers were also common, while 31 people suffered eye injuries.

ACC recorded 289 fireworks-related injury claims last year, costing $643,688.

Nearly two-thirds of those injuries occurred during November, highlighting the risks associated with Guy Fawkes celebrations.

Whitaker said simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk of injury.

“Before you light the fuse, have a hmmm. Think about who is nearby, make sure children are supervised, follow the instructions on the packaging and keep a safe distance once fireworks are lit.”

ACC is reminding families to follow safety instructions, keep spectators clear of firing areas, avoid relighting faulty fireworks and have water on hand in case of an emergency.

Fireworks safety tips

- Follow the instructions on the packaging.

- Keep a safe distance once fireworks are lit.

- Closely supervise children.

- Never relight fireworks that fail to go off.

- Keep spectators well clear of firing areas.

- Have water available in case of an emergency.