Tag: Bonfire Night

Three charged following Bonfire Night disorder

Three people have been charged in connection with offences that took place in Edinburgh on Bonfire Night.

On Thursday, 7 November, officers investigating the significant disorder in Calder Road arrested a 38-year-old man following an incident where fireworks were set off within a common stair in Dunsire House North.

The male will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Thursday, 5 December.

A 13-year-old boy was then arrested today (Friday, 8 November) in connection with vandalism that took place at the Macklin Motors car dealership on Calder Road that resulted in damage estimated at over £20,000 being caused to vehicles.

He will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 10 December.

During the evening of Bonfire Night, a car was observed stopping amongst a group of young people, who then took possession of a quantity of fireworks from inside the vehicle. These were then used to cause disorder and antisocial behaviour within the Gracemount area.

As a result of inquiries to trace the driver, a 40-year-old man was also arrested today and he will appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Tuesday, 10 December.

Detective Chief Inspector George Calder from Edinburgh CID said: “We made it clear following the disorder that put our communities in a state of alarm on Bonfire Night, that we would be unrelenting in our pursuit of those responsible and these arrests are just the first of many, as we continue to pursue various positive lines of inquiry.

“You might think you have evaded arrest, because we’ve not yet come to your door, but we will be doing so imminently.

“The public still have a vital role to play in helping us identify everyone involved in the criminality that took place on 5 November by providing us with photographic, or video evidence, via our Major Incident Public Portal.

“Please submit your footage to https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT24S16-PO1.”

Bonfire Night: Police report a fall in number of serious incidents

FEWER INJURIES TO EMERGENCY SERVICES PERSONNEL THIS YEAR

Incidents of serious disorder during Bonfire Night have fallen this year.

In 2023, specialist resources as part of Operation Moonbeam were deployed on 26 separate occasions during the evening of 5 November. This year, 18 deployments were required during the same period.

The overall number of fireworks-related calls has remained consistent to previous years, however, the number of officers injured has reduced significantly, compared to last year.

During the Operation Moonbeam deployment for October and November 2023, a total of 62 officers sustained injuries after being targeted with fireworks and other projectiles.

To date, one officer was injured on Halloween evening after a brick was thrown through the window of her police vehicle in Edinburgh. No further injuries to officers have so far been reported. One person has been arrested and charged in relation to this assault.

During the evening of Tuesday, 5 November, officers in Edinburgh responded to various incidents of youth disorder in Niddrie, Sighthill and Moredun.

Large groups gathered in these areas before throwing fireworks, bottles and bricks at police vehicles and other cars. Two fire service appliances were also attacked during this time.

No injuries to emergency service workers or members of the public were reported.

Various parts of Glasgow also experienced pockets of disorder, with youths witnessed throwing fireworks at members of the public, vehicles and police officers. There were also four incidents of fire appliances being subjected to attacks when responding to calls. Again, however, no injuries were reported.

In Peterhead a pyrotechnic device was ignited within a skate park in Aalesund Road at around 9.20pm. Those responsible then made off in a van before striking a 33-year-old male pedestrian and fleeing the scene.

The male was treated by paramedics at the scene but did not require further medical attention. Inquiries to identify the suspects are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to come forward.

Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam said: “I firstly want to recognise the outstanding courage and professionalism of all of those emergency service workers who put themselves in harm’s way to keep communities safe.

“Their actions ensured that some of the challenging scenes we witnessed this year did not escalate into mass disorder, on the scale of what we experienced last year.

“Nevertheless, the levels of violence and aggression police officers, fire service and ambulance service personnel faced in some areas was wholly unacceptable and a significant investigative response is now underway to identify each and every one of those involved and bring them to justice.

“In advance of Bonfire Night 2024, local policing teams across Scotland have worked diligently with local authority and third sector partners to make positive in-roads with communities and identify some of the root causes that lead to disorder.

“In addition, this engagement has resulted in an increase in the intelligence we have received from the public, allowing us to take preventative enforcement action before crimes could occur.

“Throughout Operation Moonbeam, we have utilised all legislation and policing powers at our disposal and we will continue our discussions with local authorities and Scottish Government to explore further opportunities for reducing fireworks offences for next year and moving forward.”

Pet expert shares tips to keep your pet calm this Bonfire Night


Bonfire Night can be a very stressful time for a pet owner and their pet. The loud crashes, bangs and booms, and inability to pinpoint where they are coming from can be extremely distressing for a dog and they can perceive it as a threat. The anxiety can also be caused by the smell of the gunpowder, the reaction of other pets or owners and the lights flashing.

If you’re worried your dog is struggling with anxiety from fireworks, some of the key signs include: shaking, whining, hiding and refusing to go out, restless, and clingy. To help pet owners across the country, Bella & Duke’s Expert Dog Behaviourist, Nikki Mather has shared some tips to limit anxiety and combat stress on Bonfire Night in the future:

  1. A long walk or run before dark: This will allow your dog to get their energy out and ensure they’re able to get home before most fireworks are likely to be let off.
  2. Providing a safe space: Having the curtains closed to avoid the flashes of light, provide a bed or crate with a cover that they can hide in, and you can be nearby for comfort, play white noise to help drown out the sound of the fireworks, and reduce stress in your dog.
  3. Be there for your dog: A good option would be to wear comfort clothes that have a familiar scent for your dog and to allow them to cuddle up for reassurance if they are seeking that. Try to remain calm for them so they don’t sense your anxiety for them.
  4. Use calming products: You can purchase calming sprays that can be beneficial to helping your dog relax, chew toys and treats are also a good option to help distract them and relax them – and also just to have a well-deserved treat at an anxious time!
  5. Preparation and patience: Being prepared can help manage your dog’s anxiety ahead of time, instead of acting once they are already afraid. Find out when any local events are planned to reduce the element of surprise and have your safe space and any products, treats or music you may be using ready to go.


Nikki Mather, Expert Dog Behaviourist at Bella & Duke, said: “We all hate to see our pets suffering and seeing the anxiety they go through when hearing fireworks is heartbreaking.

“While there are steps we can take as pet owners to limit the stress they go through, unfortunately there isn’t a magic fix. Patience and preparation will be your greatest allies and remaining calm yourself can help in keeping our pets’ distress to a minimum at this time of the year.”

To find out more information on how to keep your pets calm during Bonfire Night please visit www.bellaandduke.com

Dog behaviourist issues urgent advice ahead of bonfire night

Dogs can experience various disorders and health issues because of the noise and unpredictability of fireworks even if they are inside, including anxiety, panic attacks and cardiovascular issues. 

If exposed to fireworks displays outside, dogs may experience distress that can lead to agoraphobia, the fear of open spaces and crowds. 

This can result in long-term behavioural changes such as trembling, barking, and anxiety when taken outside, even if they previously felt safe.

Owners can keep their dogs safe during firework displays by gradually desensitizing them in advance. Play recordings during positive activities and slowly increase the volume to build their noise resilience.

Other advice includes avoiding walks on bonfire night and using dog body wraps. 

Nick Jones said: “Fireworks can be extremely frightening to dogs and exposure to the loud bangs and flashing lights can lead to serious health conditions and disorders, which can unfortunately impact behaviour long term. 

“Many owners will be surprised to learn their dog could even develop agoraphobia, a fear of open spaces and crowds if exposed to fireworks. 

“In extreme cases, they can get so scared of fireworks and loud displays that they could die of heart attacks. 

“This is why it is so important dog owners are educated on how to make the season safer for their beloved pets, including by preparing in advance for displays with desensitising techniques.

“My other advice includes not walking dogs outside if there is a possibility of fireworks, placing cotton wool in their ears, or socks over them and creating a safe, quiet and dark environment for them.”

Six tips to keep a dog safe on fireworks night, according to Nick Jones: 

Desensitisation:

Planning for fireworks is essential for dog owners. Desensitisation techniques, like gradually increasing the volume of YouTube fireworks videos while giving treats, can help dogs adapt to the noise. This creates a sense of safety. If your dog struggles during fireworks season, start desensitisation now to help for future events.

Avoid dog walks

Always avoid dog walking during fireworks displays, even if your dog isn’t showing signs of distress. The sudden noises, bangs and flashes could not only cause fear and anxiety but could also make them run away if they are off lead. 

DIY ear covers

Consider using inexpensive DIY methods like placing cotton wool under their ears or cutting an old sock to cover their ears to muffle the sounds of loud bangs and minimise distress. This technique may prove difficult on some dogs, so it may be worth investing in proper doggy earmuffs. 

Body wrap ThunderShirt 

A ThunderShirt is a specific body wrap which provides constant pressure, promoting relaxation. They are a great way to alleviate anxiety during fireworks and help them feel comforted and connected, naturally reducing stress and calming their nervous system.

Dark and soundproof spaces

Create a secure, calm, dark, and soundproof hiding place with blankets and toys to help your dog feel safe. Regularly check on them to ensure they are okay.

Seek professional help:

If no methods are helping and a dog is still showing extreme signs of fear and anxiety, they may need to be taken to a vet or referred to a dog behaviourist ahead of fireworks season for further help. 

Have your say on Firework Control Zones

CONSULTATION CLOSES 23rd AUGUST

Edinburgh residents are being asked for their views on Firework Control Zones.

The introduction of a Firework Control Zone will mean that certain fireworks will no longer be permitted to be set off in these areas, and a Citywide Firework Control Zone will mean that certain fireworks will no longer be permitted to be set off anywhere in the capital.

These Firework Control Zones will not impact organised displays, such as Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Christmas or Hogmanay.

Consultation is currently underway for the following locations:

Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker said: “Bonfire Night and broader fireworks use in the city can be an opportunity for communities to come together to celebrate and spend time together. 

“However, we all remember the shocking scenes we saw in some areas of the capital last year with emergency services being attacked, and we are doing everything in our power to prevent similar occurrences this November.

“This consultation is an opportunity for everyone to share their position on the use of fireworks, and I encourage everyone to take some time to have their say before the consultation closes.”

Further information on Firework Control Zones is available on the council website. The consultation closes on Friday 23 August 2024.

Bonfire Night disorder: 27 arrests, 53 offences as investigations continue

Twenty-six people have now been charged with a total of 51 offences following bonfire night disorder seen in Edinburgh on Sunday, 5 November, 2023.

A further individual will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal in connection with two charges, meaning a total number of 27 people have been identified for 53 offences.

The ages of those range between 12 and 34 years of age, with the majority aged in their mid to late teens.

A total of 31 charges against 15 individuals relates specifically to the significant disorder seen in the Niddrie area.

Within this, two men, aged 29 and 27 have been charged in connection with inciting violence. They are alleged to have filmed the events on mobile phones while encouraging youths to be violent towards police.

A 31-year-old man and a 34-year-old woman were also charged in connection with supplying fireworks to youths.

The charges are a result of an extensive investigation which has been ongoing since bonfire night by a dedicated team of officers.

Chief Inspector Kieran Dougal said: “The events of bonfire night, especially in the East of the city, were wholly unacceptable.

“The scenes experienced are not reflective of the Niddrie community as a whole and were acts carried out by a minority.”

Read the full update at: https://ow.ly/mBL050QgQ3l

5th November disorder: More Arrests

Eight further people have been charged in connection with bonfire night disorder seen in Edinburgh on Sunday, 5 November.

Two male youths, both aged 15, have been charged in connection with preparing petrol bombs and firing fireworks at police in the Niddrie area.

Six other male youths, all aged between 14 and 16, have been charged in connection with possession of fireworks and associated disorder in the Southhouse/Gracemount areas.

Work remains ongoing to establish the identities of others involved and a number of others have been identified.

Officers continue to appeal to the public to provide any information that can help with ongoing enquiries.

There is a Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) that allows members of the public to send information directly to the police that can be accessed as follows: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/SCOT23S38-PO1

Chief Inspector Kieran Dougal said: “The disorder seen in the capital on bonfire night was completely unacceptable and these charges show our continued commitment to identifying and tracing those involved in the incidents.

“Our investigation continues and I would urge the public to continue to help us with that by reporting any information to 101, or send it to the portal link. Alternatively you can call Crimstoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be given anonymously.”

Police appeal for information following violence on Bonfire Night

Police Scotland is appealing for information following unprecedented levels of violence directed at officers and other emergency service workers from Bonfire Night disorder.

On Sunday, 5 November, 2023, there were several serious disturbances that required a response from specially trained public order officers.

In Edinburgh officers received reports of a large group of youths and adults gathering in the Hay Avenue area in Niddrie around 4.40pm. Around 50 youths were throwing fireworks at vehicles and buildings.

When officers arrived they came under attack from youths throwing fireworks, petrol bombs and other projectiles. Four officers sustained minor injuries but did not require hospital treatment.

There is a continued police presence in the Niddrie area and enquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible.

For disorder in Edinburgh there is a Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) that allows members of the public to send information directly to the police that can be accessed here.

Around 9.05pm officers were called to a report of around 20 youths fighting and throwing fireworks at one another within in the Quarrywood Avenue area of Barmulloch in Glasgow.

Four people, including a police officer, were taken to Glasgow Royal Infirmary for treatment.

Enquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible. There is a continued police presence in the area and anyone with any concerns can approach these officers.

We have also set up a Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) for Glasgow that allows members of the public to send information directly to the police that can be accessed here.

Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam said: “Last night we experienced significant disorder, in particular in the Niddrie area of Edinburgh, and in the Quarrywood Avenue area of Glasgow.

“Our priority during the disorder was to protect our communities and our emergency workers, and now we are looking to carry on our police work and use the evidence we gathered to carry out the necessary arrests.

“The level of disorder we faced was unacceptable and looking at the evidence we have already gathered, we don’t believe this incident was spontaneous. Although many of those involved were youths, there were undoubtedly adults involved in orchestrating that behaviour.

“We took a robust stance and I am proud of the courage, discipline and professionalism that officers showed in the face of the violence last night.

“A number of our officers sustained minor physical injuries, however we are also aware of the mental impact that dealing with such significant levels of violence/disorder can have and will continue to support all officers affected.  Nobody deserves to be injured in this way for doing their job. An emergency worker is also someone’s son, daughter, husband or wife.

“If anyone has any information that can help us in our investigation then please contact 101, or send it in via the respective portal link.”

In addition, anyone with any information that can assist officers is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101 or make a call to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

How to stay safe on Bonfire Night if you’re having a bonfire at home

Experts at MyJobQuote.co.uk have created this guide on how to stay safe on bonfire night. Here, you will find all of the key steps needed to ensure you and your loved ones remain safe.

The following advice is helpful for those hosting a bonfire night party or creating an actual bonfire. Take a look at the advice below:

Planning a Bonfire Night Properly

If you are planning on hosting a party or creating your own bonfire this year, there are several things that you’ll need to consider and keep in mind when planning. Below are some tips for planning your bonfire night activities:

  • Always make sure you are building a bonfire that is completely stable and constructed carefully.
  • Let your neighbours know you’re planning on having a bonfire.
  • Use the correct items on the bonfire.
  • Make sure the bonfire is far away from any wildlife, trees, and structures to prevent the fire from being able to spread.
  • Keep the direction of the wind in mind on the night of the bonfire to prevent the fire from blowing and spreading to nearby wildlife or structures.
  • Ensure the bonfire is not a nuisance to anyone else, including your neighbours.
  • Keep a lookout for any nearby cables, and avoid setting up a bonfire underneath these.
  • It’s also important to set up a barrier around the bonfire to keep everyone safe. The barrier must be at least five metres around the bonfire.

How to Stay Safe at a Bonfire

  • Avoid lighting a bonfire with paraffin, petrol, diesel, white spirit, or methylated spirit. You also can’t use any of these to enhance the fire as it could be dangerous and could cause the fire to get out of control.
  • Have buckets of water or large quantities of water available nearby so that you can easily put the fire out if it gets out of control.
  • Avoid using any canisters, batteries, aerosols, or anything with foam or paint on the bonfire. Also, avoid using any wood that is treated or painted.
  • If you start to notice smoke heading towards nearby households, be ready to dampen the bonfire. This can occur if the wind changes direction.
  • Monito your bonfire throughout the entire process from start to finish. Keep a lookout at the strength and direction of the smoke to make sure it’s not an issue for people living nearby or for nearby wildlife.

How Do You Put Out a Bonfire?

When the night is over, it’s important that you completely put the bonfire out before retreating inside your home. Take the following steps to put out your bonfire properly:

  • Spray the bonfire thoroughly with water to begin putting it out. Wait until the bonfire has cooled down enough before leaving it. Make sure the bonfire can’t relight at all from any hot embers that remain. You will need to visually inspect the area and use your common sense to ensure the fire can’t possibly relight itself.
  • You should then rake the ashes into nearby soil and carefully dispose of all of the cooled-down materials. Use gloves to transport the materials for disposal, and wash your hands properly after you’ve moved everything.

Safety Tips When Using Fireworks at Home

There are some things you need to keep in mind if you are planning on lighting fireworks at your home. Take a look at the safety tips below if you are planning on launching some fireworks in your garden this year:

  • You should only ever use legal fireworks that have been purchased from a reputable supplier. In the UK, fireworks must be UKCA-marked or CE-marked. Alternatively, the fireworks should come with specific documents with these markings if they don’t have the markings on them directly.
  • Make sure you read all of the manufacturer’s instructions very carefully and follow the instructions to a T.
  • All fireworks must be suitable for being launched in the space and conditions that you have at home.
  • Avoid lighting any naked flames close to the fireworks.
  • Be sure to always point the fireworks in a safe and appropriate direction before lighting them.

Final Safety Tips For Bonfire Night

As mentioned, bonfire night should be a fun and safe experience. As long as you follow these safety tips and you always follow guidelines and manufacturer instructions, you should have no problems.

Using common sense is very important in ensuring you and your family remain safe. Keep children and pets away from open flames and fireworks. Always keep a barrier between the people and the fire, and never get too close to lit fireworks. When lighting fireworks, always step back and leave a safe distance before the fireworks launch.

There are so many fun things that you can do on bonfire night. If you are planning on having a bonfire party, take a look at this article by MyJobQuote.

In this article, you will find a range of bonfire night treat ideas as well as some additional safety tips to ensure you and your family remain safe throughout the bonfire celebrations.