Bonfire Night Smoke Puts Millions with Asthma and Lung Conditions at Risk, Experts Warn
LONDON As Britain lights up the skies this Bonfire Night, respiratory health experts are warning that the celebrations come with a hidden cost: a sharp rise in air pollution that can trigger serious breathing problems for people with asthma, COPD and other lung conditions.
Data from the UK Air Quality Network shows that levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) spike sharply each year during the first week of November, often exceeding recommended safe limits for hours at a time. These pollutants irritate the airways, reduce lung function and can trigger attacks in people with pre-existing conditions.
Pollution peaks every November
According to the British Lung Foundation, Bonfire Night can see PM2.5 concentrations rise by as much as 200 per cent in some urban areas. The combination of bonfire smoke, damp weather and low wind traps pollutants close to the ground, creating a temporary “smog” effect similar to that seen in major cities abroad.
Dr. Andy Whittamore, Clinical Lead at Asthma + Lung UK, told the BBC earlier this week that people with asthma should be especially cautious: “Even short exposure to bonfire smoke can cause coughing, wheezing and tightness in the chest. For some, it’s enough to send them to hospital.”
The charity’s data shows that emergency admissions for asthma tend to rise in the days following 5 November, particularly among children and older adults. Similar patterns were seen after Diwali celebrations earlier in the month, where fireworks use was also widespread.
Who’s most at risk?
- People with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Children under 12 and older adults with reduced lung capacity.
- People with heart disease, as fine particles can also increase cardiovascular strain.
The NHS advises anyone with a diagnosed respiratory condition to keep their reliever inhaler close and avoid prolonged exposure outdoors when bonfires or fireworks are active nearby. For some, staying indoors and keeping windows closed during peak smoke periods can prevent a flare-up.
Calls for cleaner celebrations
Environmental campaigners and public health groups are urging councils to consider restrictions on household bonfires and encourage community events with controlled, single ignition sites instead. Several local authorities in London, Manchester and Birmingham now promote “clean air” displays that use low-emission fireworks and ban the burning of treated wood and household waste.
Asthma + Lung UK has also called for a public awareness campaign similar to those used during summer heatwaves, warning of the risks for vulnerable groups each November. “We don’t want to cancel celebrations,” the charity said, “but we do need to make them safer for everyone to breathe.”
Protecting yourself on Bonfire Night
- Check your local air quality index before heading out (uk-air.defra.gov.uk).
- Take your preventer and reliever inhalers as prescribed and keep them with you.
- Avoid standing downwind of bonfires or fireworks displays.
- Keep windows and doors closed at home until the smoke has cleared.
- Consider wearing a well-fitted mask if you have to be outdoors during heavy smoke.
Balancing tradition and health
Bonfire Night remains one of Britain’s best-loved traditions, but as air quality concerns grow, experts say it’s time to modernise how the country celebrates. For millions with respiratory conditions, the cost of one night’s celebration can last days or even weeks.
This article is provided by Fidelis News. Free to read, not free to make. Support our independent journalism via Buy Me a Coffee.
Sources: BBC News, DEFRA, British Lung Foundation, Asthma + Lung UK.
Date: 8 November 2025 | By: Fidelis News Staff
