Bonfire Season: Advice to local parents

Dear Parents/Guardians

In the run up to bonfire season, Police Scotland, City of Edinburgh Council and Scottish Fire & Rescue are keen to keep everyone safe during the festivities. In previous years we have seen firework-related anti-social behaviour (ASB) and disorder in this area, and we are asking for your help to prevent this occurring again.

We’re therefore offering the following advice:

• Unless supervised by an adult, please do not allow your children or young people to handle, purchase or set off fireworks.
• Do not allow your children or young people to be involved in or accompany anyone who is involved in ASB or disorder.
• Please report any ASB or disorder you are aware of or hear of
• Dispose of your rubbish appropriately leading up to bonfire weekend
• Report any large objects that could form part of a bonfire and the Council will request for them to be removed by contacting waste@edinburgh.gov.uk
• Please report any unauthorised fireworks sellers to Police or Crimestoppers
• Please report any known unauthorised bonfires or fireworks displays by calling

Edinburgh Council 0131 200 2000

Police Scotland 101

Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

Unauthorised bonfires and firework displays have resulted in serious harm and injury in the past. We would therefore encourage you to attend an organised display if you want to enjoy fireworks this year.

Legislation

• No person under the age of 18 can possess an adult* firework in a public place
• It is an offence to supply adult* fireworks to persons under 18
• It is an offence to supply any fireworks to persons under 16
• It is an offence to throw fireworks on a road or other public place

*Adult firework is any firework except for caps, cracker snaps, indoor fireworks, novelty matches, party poppers, serpents and throw downs.

To prevent a repeat of the incidents seen last year steps are being taken to increase the safety of residents and those working within the emergency services. Policing of Bonfire Night will be robust and we will take immediate action where individuals attempt to prevent or disrupt the work of the emergency services. Those who choose to get involved in antisocial behaviour or disorder on or around the 5 November may also be subject to prosecution.

Thank you in advance for your understanding and assistance.

Kind regards

Police Scotland, City of Edinburgh Council & Scottish Fire & Rescue Service