Crimestoppers and Fearless Scotland launch annual ‘Speak Up Stay Safe’ campaign
Independent charity Crimestoppers and its youth programme Fearless Scotland are today launching their annual Bonfire Night safety campaign, urging people to speak up 100% anonymously if they know about planned attacks on emergency crews or deliberate fire-raising in their communities.
The campaigns – supported by the Scottish Government – also highlights the law around fireworks misuse, Firework Protection Zones, and, crucially, encourages people to speak up 100% anonymously about fire-raising.
Last year’s Crimestoppers’ campaign generated a wealth of information given anonymously to the charity which helped prevent at least three extremely serious, potentially life-threatening attacks on emergency crews in Scotland.
In particular, the annual campaign is asking for information on:
– Who and where organised attacks are being planned
– Where fireworks and weapons are being stored/stock-piled
– Who is responsible for deliberate fire-raising
Crimestoppers’ campaign aims to encourage reporting from the public about any planned attacks and additionally help gather information after bonfire night about who was responsible.
Communities who experienced an increase in firework attacks will be equipped with leaflets, posters and banners to raise awareness of the law around fireworks misuse and to encourage anonymous reporting about about who is responsible.
Angela Parker, National Manager of Crimestoppers in Scotland, said:“Our charity believes everyone has the right to feel safe, no more so than Scotland’s emergency services who risk their lives to keep us safe.
“Information from last year prevented a serious attack on our emergency services. That’s why we are asking anyone with information on those planning attacks to get in touch with our charity 100% anonymously.
“No-one will ever know you contacted us, and your information could be preventing serious injury or harm or even loss of life for emergency workers.”
Kirsten Oswald MSP, Minister for Community Safety, said: “We want everyone to enjoy Bonfire Night safely and I would urge anyone planning to use fireworks to do so responsibly.
“The emergency services play a vital role in keeping us all safe and any assaults on them will not be tolerated. Measures brought in in 2022 mean attacks on 999 crews using fireworks or pyrotechnics are now aggravating factors that courts can take into account when sentencing offenders.
“Other steps we have taken to improve firework safety include bringing in a ban on providing fireworks to under-18s.
“If you have information about any activity that might put emergency workers or communities at risk as Bonfire Night approaches, please get in touch with Crimestoppers by phone or on their website. You can do this anonymously and you could be helping to keep our 999 crews and your neighbours safe.”
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam said: “While most people enjoy Bonfire Night responsibly, there are those who seek to target police officers and other emergency service workers with fireworks and other projectiles, putting them at serious risk of harm while they attempt to keep communities safe.
“We saw a number of these incidents occur last year, resulting in over 60 officers being injured and this is entirely unacceptable.
“If you are found to be involved in an offence that puts police officers, other emergency service workers, or the general public at risk of harm you will be brought to justice, either on the night or during our follow-up inquiries.
“I would encourage anyone who has information about planned Bonfire Night criminality to report, and they will be brought to justice. In the event you avoid being caught on the night, you can expect a visit from us once we have conducted our inquiries.
“I would ask the public to work alongside us in helping make Bonfire Night a safe and enjoyable occasion and to contact us directly via 101 or make an anonymous report to Crimestoppers.”
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Assistant Chief Officer Andrew Watt said: “Last year, our crews came under attack on nine occasions within an eight-hour period. Our staff work tirelessly over the Bonfire period to keep people safe, and do not deserve to be attacked for doing their job.
They should be able to carry out their role without being hurt or having appliances and equipment damaged by reckless anti-social behaviour.
“These actions are also an unnecessary drain on emergency service resources. We want to bring any emergency to a safe and swift conclusion – please respect our staff and all emergency services.”
Scottish Ambulance Service Chief Executive Michael Dickson said:“We know this time of year is about fun and celebration, but let’s not forget that those on the frontline, our ambulance crews should never have to worry about their own safety while they care for others.
“Unfortunately, we’re still seeing cases of our staff facing physical assaults and verbal abuse, often driven by too much drinking. These are dedicated professionals who deserve respect, not hostility. So, have a great night, enjoy the festivities, but please, treat our staff and emergency service partners with respect.”
Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service have praised Scotland’s communities for their support, following a considerable reduction in serious disorder over the Halloween and Bonfire Night period.
Between 31 October and 5 November 2024, Police Scotland received 1,317 calls requiring either a local, or specialist response. This year, 833 calls across the country were received – a decrease of almost 37 per cent.
There were no significant incidents recorded between 31 October and 4 November 2025, with only minor reports of antisocial behaviour and disorder reported in parts of Edinburgh and Midlothian.
On Wednesday, 5 November, police responded to incidents in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Clydebank and Blackridge.
At around 5.30pm Public Order Officers responded to calls relating to antisocial behaviour and youths throwing fireworks within the Calder Road and Sighthill Park areas. Upon arrival of police, those involved dispersed and no further serious offences took place.
Local officers and members of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in Netherton Road, Glasgow reported fireworks being directed at their vehicles at around 7.05pm, resulting in the police car sustaining damage and requiring uplift.
Public Order officers then assisted local policing colleagues in Clydebank at around 8pm following incidents of fireworks being directed towards shops and vehicles within Dunbarton Road. One male sustained a minor injury to his shoulder as a result of a rear window of the vehicle he was travelling within being smashed by a firework. He did not require any hospital treatment.
A further report of an SFRS crew being attacked by projectiles was then received at 9.45pm in Blackridge, West Lothian.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service dealt with almost 700 emergency calls throughout the evening.
Two people have been arrested so far, and inquiries are ongoing to identify individuals involved in the offences that took place.
To date, 25 Dispersal Orders were issued in Edinburgh, with a further 20 in Glasgow. Officers in the Capital also carried out 34 stop and searches under the Section 60 policing powers implemented for Bonfire Night.
There have been no reports of injury to police officers or other emergency service personnel over the last week.
Operation Moonbeam is Police Scotland’s public order response to addressing serious disorder over the Bonfire Night period and in 2025, more specialist resource than ever before was dedicated to help protect local communities from harm.
For the first time during Moonbeam deployments, various officers were equipped with Body Worn Video.
Over the past few weeks, police seized more than two tonnes of illegal fireworks that intelligence suggested were intended for use in disorder.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam said: “First and foremost, I want to offer my thanks to the public across Scotland for their overwhelming support of our policing response and for working closely with us to make this a successful operation.
“While police were required to deploy into various areas and address certain incidents arising, there has been a notable and welcome reduction in both the number of serious disorder offences occurring, and the level of violence and hostility directed towards police officers, fire fighters, and ambulance crews.
“There will be follow-up criminal inquiries undertaken in relation to some of the offences that took place, and I want to make it clear again that the criminal use of fireworks will not be tolerated.
“What’s really encouraging is the level of positive engagement we’ve had with communities over the last few months, and this has helped shape our policing plans for Operation Moonbeam, as well as providing vital intelligence that has led to some significant fireworks recoveries in advance of the Bonfire Night period.
“I am grateful to all of the partners and stakeholders who worked alongside us in the planning and delivery of Operation Moonbeam and to each and every officer and member of staff whose dedication and professionalism have made this a successful policing operation.”
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour, SFRS Head of Prevention, added “I would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff, and all emergency responders across Scotland, for their tireless efforts during this busy and challenging period.
“The bonfire season is always our busiest period of the year and presents us with some unique challenges in terms of keeping our staff and communities safe.
“But that is why our preparatory work is so key and I would like to thank our partners for their continued support in this joint effort.
“Thank you also to our communities for following our key safety guidance and for respecting our staff. Their support is invaluable in allowing us to be there for those who need our help the most.”
Following months of hard work, Council Leader Jane Meagher has praised partners and communities for a successful Bonfire Night.
Responding to the success of Operation Moonbeam, Council Leader Jane Meagher said:“I’m pleased and relieved that Bonfire Night passed off without serious incident last night and that the vast majority of people celebrated safely and responsibly.
“It was wonderful to see so many families, friends, and communities coming together to have fun and enjoy the organised events on offer. It really did feel worlds apart from recent years – and I want to thank our communities for the part they played in that.
“Of course, I’m disappointed by the behaviour of a few mindless individuals and I hope they’re dealt with swiftly and appropriately. However, we only saw a fraction of the issues and disruption we’ve experienced in previous years and it’s such a relief that no one was hurt.
“I want to express my sincere thanks to Police Scotland for their swift action on the night and to everyone who played a role in keeping us safe.
“A huge amount of planning and hard work has gone in from by colleagues from across the Council – particularly in our schools – and from Police and blue-light services, Lothian Buses, and many other partners across the city.
“A standout for me was the genuine and constructive engagement with our young people over many months, with last month’s Youth Summit a particular success. It was so heartening to hear the impact this had on our young people and, also, how well attended last night’s activities were.
“To me, this feels like a great return on the investment we’ve made in our young people, many of whom had begun to feel demonised by the events of previous years, and it’s something we must focus on all year round – not just on Bonfire Night.
“Overall, this was a genuine team effort that represents the very best of partnership working in our city – and I know colleagues are already thinking about how we can use the lessons we’ve learned last night, and in the build up to it.
“I’m determined to make sure that every Bonfire Night is as positive and memorable for our residents an communities.”
From 3pm this afternoon, Police Scotland will be implementing Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 powers in certain areas of the city to address any disorder that may arise.
This allows officers to stop and search people and vehicles where this is appropriate and necessary.
Section 60 also allows officers to require the removal of any item the officer believes is being used wholly or partly for the purposes of concealing their identity.
The powers will be in place within the Niddrie, Muirhouse, Pilton, Moredun, Gracemount, Saughton, Sighthill and Longstone areas of the city.
It will be used responsibly and when justified to help prevent disorder and serious violence.
Chief Superintendent David Robertson, Divisional Commander for Edinburgh, said: “The overwhelming majority of those within Edinburgh have enjoyed the celebrations of the last week in the proper spirit and I sincerely thank the public for their support of our policing operation to keep people safe during the Halloween and Bonfire Night periods.
“Attacks on police officers, emergency service colleagues, and other vital services will not be tolerated.
“These offences have a significant detrimental impact on our communities and so we will be utilising the Section 60 powers where appropriate to ensure this evening is safe and enjoyable for everyone looking to celebrate.”
Remember the impact fireworks can have on those around you, including pets and animals who can suffer stress and anxiety from the loud and sudden noises.
Council Leader Jane Meagher has repeated her appeal for residents to stay safe tonight by attending organised displays and following simple safety advice.
Council Leader Jane Meagher said: “We’ve enjoyed a fantastic few days of celebrations across the city, with residents of all ages getting into the Halloween spirit on Friday night and some well-attended community firework displays over the weekend. On Sunday, I had the pleasure of attending local Diwali celebrations, and it was wonderful to see our communities coming together to enjoy the festivities.
“As we look ahead to Bonfire Night tonight, preparations are well underway for another evening of celebration, with further community displays are other activities planned across the city. While this is, of course, a highlight for many, it’s also a time when serious injuries and accidents can occur if fireworks and bonfires aren’t handled safely.
“This is why we’ve been working so closely with our partners and community groups to put measures in place, such as Firework Control Zones, to help make Bonfire Night safe and memorable for all the right reasons.
“We’ve also been engaging with young people over many months to promote firework safety, checking and clearing fly-tipping hotspots to reduce fire risks and co-ordinating CCTV coverage to support community safety.
“I’d encourage you once again to attend one the many organised displays taking place across the city tonight – they’re not only the best way to enjoy fireworks, they’re also the safest. And please look after yourself and your loved ones by following the simple safety advice.
“I want us all to remember Bonfire Night for the right reasons this year.”
You can also play your part by storing bins securely and reporting any large items that could be used for bonfires by emailing waste@edinburgh.gov.uk.
If you spot unauthorised bonfires or firework displays, you can report these to the Council by calling 0131 200 2000, Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
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.
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.”
Bonfire Night is the busiest night of the year for firefighters across Scotland.
Please respect our crews when they are bringing incidents to a safe conclusion. Remember – we are here to keep you safe.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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!
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
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.
Planning to enjoy fireworks this Bonfire Night? Stay safe and look out for those around you.
Only adults should handle fireworks
Keep children at a safe distance
Take extra care with sparklers
Always follow the Firework Code
Remember that fireworks can be distressing for animals and for people with sensory sensitivities
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