With Guy Fawkes Night fast approaching there is bound to be a host of fireworks exploding in the sky and bonfires being lit below. However residents are reminded that there are rules around both to avoid your fun becoming a nuisance to others.

It is against the law to use fireworks between the hours of 11pm and 7am except on certain special occasions such as Diwali, New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Bonfire Night (Sunday, 5 November). On Bonfire Night, you are allowed to use fireworks until midnight. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to go to an official public display.

There are no laws against having a bonfire, but there are laws for the air pollution and nuisance they can cause. Therefore local people are urged to consider their neighbours and the environment before starting a bonfire.

Smoke from bonfires can cause severe distress to sufferers of respiratory conditions such as asthma, and often are a nuisance to neighbours drying laundry outside or enjoying their gardens.

Therefore, rather than burning a bonfire to get rid of your garden waste, you are advised to use alternatives to such as the council’s garden waste collection service or composting (you can even get a discount on a compost bin).

Councillor Ranjit Dheer, cabinet member for safety, culture and community services and deputy leader, said: “Bonfire Night is an enjoyable time for many residents and I encourage everyone to have a fun, but safe time, during the festivities and to think about others who might not be celebrating.

“Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated and our officers will take action against anyone caught breaking the law. Residents have a role to play too when using fireworks; by sticking to the curfew, being considerate and acting responsibly.”

Further advice on fireworks and bonfires can be found at the London Fire Brigade’s website.

To report concerns about noise or air pollution, you can call the council’s response team on 020 8825 8111 (including during afternoons or evenings at the weekend) or report it online.

You can find out more about air quality and guidelines on bonfires on the council’s website.