Fireworks and bonfires with a lung condition

Fireworks and bonfires can increase air pollution levels, especially during big celebrations like Bonfire Night, Diwali, New Year and the Chinese New Year.

When fireworks explode, they release smoke and harmful pollutants into the air that can damage your lungs. These include sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide.

Breathing in smoke from bonfires can also irritate your airways.

This means that fireworks and bonfires could make your lung condition symptoms worse. They can cause an asthma attack or a flare up of your lung condition.

Find out more about air pollution and your lungs.

It's best to avoid being near fireworks and bonfires if it affects your lung condition, but we know that this may not always be possible. For example, if your neighbours have fireworks or a bonfire at home. You can stay safe by:

Standing back

Stand away from fireworks or bonfires if you're going to a big display. Check which direction the wind is blowing, so you can avoid breathing in too much smoke.

Being prepared

If you have a preventer inhaler, take it everyday as prescribed. This will help you manage your symptoms.

If you use a reliever inhaler, always have it with you. You can use it quickly if your symptoms get worse. Make sure the people you're with know how to help you in an emergency too.

Good inhaler technique helps the medicine reach your lungs where it is needed. Learn more about how to use your inhaler correctly.

If you use a self-management plan, it can be useful to keep a copy with you. If you do not have a self-management plan yet, it's easy to get started. We have free resources available to download or print:

• Asthma action plans for both adults and children
• COPD self-management plan
• Pulmonary fibrosis self-management plan.

Wearing a mask

Some people with lung conditions find face masks helpful when they're exposed to air pollution.

Masks with filters can help to protect you from fireworks and bonfire smoke, but they cannot block the most harmful particles in the air.

If you're celebrating in cold weather, wearing a mask or loosely wrapping a scarf around your nose and mouth helps to warm the air you're breathing in. This is important because cold air can make your lung condition symptoms worse.

Read more practical advice about cold weather and your lungs.

Consider staying indoors

It may be best to stay inside with your doors and windows closed if fireworks and bonfires affect your lung condition, or if the air quality is already poor. You can check the air quality in your local area on the DEFRA website.

We know it can be disappointing to celebrate special occasions differently, but there are many safe ways you can have fun.

You could try:

• watching fireworks displays from indoors
• watching fireworks displays on TV or online
• decorating with glowsticks, lights and other colourful decorations
• going to a drone or laser show in your local area
• blowing bubbles or throwing biodegradable confetti.