As Bonfire Night approaches, Police ask everyone to celebrate safely
Dispersal Zones for #OpCrackle are in place across Edinburgh (31 Oct – 5 Nov) to help prevent anti-social behaviour and protect our communities.
Bonfire Night: Celebrate Safely
Tag: community safety
Experienced firefighter recalls “horrible” moment her crewmate was struck with firework
A seasoned firefighter has spoken of the terrifying moment her crew came under attack with fireworks.
Watch Commander Debbie McCafferty serves communities at both Glasgow’s Clydesmill Community Fire Station and at Carluke Community Fire Station.
Debbie has protected communities since 2002 and balances her wholetime role with family life and responding to emergencies via a pager.
Last year, she and her on call crewmates came under attack during a callout to an unofficial bonfire in Carluke.
After engaging with the crowd in attendance, Debbie and her colleagues began to extinguish the bonfire. It was then a firework was fired in their direction.
Debbie recalled: “There were loads of people around the bonfire. As we began to extinguish it and the crowd began to disperse, we heard a whistling noise.
“I looked around to my left and an unexploded firework had hit a trainee firefighter on his leg. We both instinctively kicked it away and then it went off.
“It was horrible, really horrible. Thankfully everyone was okay, but all it would have taken was for the firework to get stuck in his tunic or for it to have landed in front of us and it would have caused severe injuries.
“We’re there trying to do a job and keep people safe. We’re not targets and we don’t deserve to be treated like that.”
Firefighter Scott Stevenson attended the same incident and was struck by the firework. He recalled: “It was quite dark, and I was stood making sure the fire was out when I heard a whistle.
“I felt something strike my leg and my colleague pulled me to the side as the firework exploded.
“It was a scary situation and could have been a lot worse.
“My family were very upset and angry when they found out.”
Debbie is keen to point out that attending an organised firework event or bonfire display is the safest way to enjoy the bonfire season – but she is realistic enough to know many people will host firework displays or have bonfires at home.
She said: “Have a good time and enjoy yourself but do it in a safe manner. Don’t put yourself at risk and don’t ruin anyone else’s fun. Respect other people and consider the impact of fireworks on animals.
“We’re not there to ruin anyone’s fun, we just want to keep people safe – and that includes ourselves.”
You can find out key safety information, including the Bonfire Code, on the SFRS website.
On there, you will also see a full and updated list of all public firework events taking place across Scotland.
Keep Emergency Services workers safe this fireworks season
Help keep Scotland’s emergency services safe this Bonfire Night.
Speak up to us or 100% anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers about anyone involved in planned attacks against emergency crews
Bonfire night safety fears after 42% rise in fireworks-related incidents
- Home Office data shows 2024/25 saw 42 per cent increase in firework incidents compared to 2023/24
- 3,500+ incidents linked to human error since 2010
- Organised displays remain the safest option
As an increasing number of organised fireworks displays across the UK are cancelled this year, safety charity the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is warning of increased risks from home-based celebrations.
Cancellations in London, Edinburgh and other locations come amid a 42 per cent rise in fireworks-related fire incidents, prompting urgent calls for caution ahead of Bonfire Night. New data shows 264 incidents occurred in 2024/25, up from 185 the previous year.
The figures, drawn from Home Office statistics, highlight a worrying trend in unsafe firework use. Most incidents involved “other primary fires,” which include outdoor fires in bins, grassland, and vehicles, likely caused by improper handling or disposal of fireworks.
Fireworks are a leading cause of seasonal fire injuries and property damage in the UK. Despite ongoing safety campaigns, human error remains the primary factor in over 75 per cent of incidents.
Organised events offer safer – as well as more spectacular – displays. However, anyone intending on using fireworks at home should remember the following important safety tips:
- Only adults should handle fireworks
- Avoid alcohol if you are lighting fireworks
- Store fireworks in a closed box
- Always light fireworks at arm’s length with a taper
- Never return to a firework after lighting
- Direct rockets well away from spectators.
- Always buy fireworks with a CE or UKCA mark
- Sparklers burn at extremely high temperatures and must be handled with care.
Rebecca Guy, Senior Policy Manager at RoSPA, said: “Fireworks are powerful explosives, not toys. Only adults should handle them and never mix alcohol with lighting fireworks.
“Store them safely in a closed box, light at arm’s length with a taper, and never go back to a lit firework. Always buy CE or UKCA-marked products, aim rockets away from people, and remember sparklers burn at extremely high temperatures — treat them with care.
“The shocking rise in incidents over the past year is a stark reminder of the dangers they pose when misused. We strongly advise families to attend organised displays wherever possible, as they are far safer than home-based celebrations.”
Find more firework safety advice on the RoSPA website.
Police praise Halloween behaviour: Now for Bonfire Night
Operation Moonbeam deployments have concluded and we’d like to thank the overwhelming majority of the public who have enjoyed the Halloween celebrations in the right spirit (no pun intended!)
A few incidents of minor antisocial behaviour involving fireworks were reported within Edinburgh, Midlothian and Glasgow, and inquiries into these are ongoing.
In total, four Dispersal Orders were issued in the South East of Edinburgh.
There have been no reports of any injuries to date.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam, said: “I’m really encouraged that we have not seen the same levels of disorder that we experienced last Halloween and thankful that we’ve not had any reported injuries to those emergency services, bus drivers, or members of the public.
“We will continue to have enhanced resources in place over the weekend and into next week ahead of Bonfire Night and I would again encourage our communities to enjoy the coming days responsibly and help us keep everyone safe.
“I’m grateful to the public for their overwhelming support of our policing operation and my thanks go to all officers, emergency service colleagues and other key partners who have played a vital role in protecting communities, or ensuring that vital services have been provided to those who needed them.”
Celebrate Bonfire Night safely
Council Leader Jane Meagher discusses plans in place for Bonfire Night and encourages residents to celebrate safely:
Bonfire Night is a much-loved tradition and a highlight of the year for so many across the city. It’s a time to come together with friends, family, and neighbours to enjoy fireworks and have fun.
As we look forward to celebrating, we’re asking everyone to do so safely and responsibly. Wherever possible, we’d encourage residents to attend one of the many organised displays taking place across the city. These events are not only the best way to enjoy fireworks, they’re also the safest.
Sadly, in previous years, we’ve seen a small minority misuse fireworks in ways that put others at risk. Emergency services workers, local businesses, essential bus services, and members of the public have all been affected by dangerous and anti-social behaviour. This is unacceptable and it doesn’t reflect the vast majority who simply want to enjoy the night peacefully.
That’s why we’re taking proactive steps again this year, working closely with our partners to put robust plans in place. One important measure is the continued use of Firework Control Zones (FCZs), which were introduced in response to community concerns. Based on data and evidence, FCZs are about making sure celebrations happen in the right way and in the right place and they’ve already proven to be effective in previous years.
Aligning these with Dispersal Zones ensures there is a comprehensive framework in place to deter reckless and antisocial behaviour.
They’re not a catch-all solution, but they’re part of our broader approach that includes enforcement, prevention and engagement.
Our teams, alongside Police Scotland, have been visiting firework retailers across Edinburgh and I’m delighted that all but 2 have made the decision not to sell fireworks this year. This is a huge step forward that will make the celebrations safer for everyone.
We’re also prioritising direct engagement with young people, giving them a voice in how we shape our approach to firework safety. Just recently, Police Scotland and Fearless hosted a youth summit, offering young people a meaningful platform to share their perspectives and help develop the Fearless social media campaign which will reach thousands of our young people in the run-up.
We’re backing this up with funding for alternative activities and youth engagement programmes aimed at providing positive choices and discouraging anti-social behaviour.
In the lead up to Bonfire Night, you’ll also notice Council teams and community volunteers working together to clear hazardous materials, tackling fly-tipping, and offering free bulky waste collections to reduce the risk of deliberate fires.
Together, we can all play a part in making Bonfire Night a safe and enjoyable time for everyone by following safety guidance, being considerate of others, and reporting any concerns.
Fearless promotes firework safety at Edinburgh event
Hundreds of young people across Edinburgh united at the Corn Exchange last month for Igniting Change – an event placing young voices at the heart of shaping Scotland’s approach to fireworks safety.
Hosted by Fearless, Crimestoppers’ youth service, in partnership with Police Scotland and supported by key organisations, the initiative gave pupils a unique opportunity to share their views directly, deepen their understanding of fireworks risks, and help create resources for their peers in the run-up to the fireworks season.
Fearless Digital Media Officer Natalia Ainsworth chats with some event attendees
The insights, experiences, and creative ideas gathered on the day will form the foundation of a new Fearless social media campaign, launched on 27th October across Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram, reaching hundreds of thousands of young people across Scotland in the run-up to Bonfire Night.
From fire safety and animal welfare to learning about the medical realities of fireworks injuries with the Scottish Ambulance Service and Medics Against Violence, some serious issues were tackled – but the young people also helped create a campaign soundtrack alongside a professional DJ, shared ideas on a digital graffiti wall, and engaged in a live Q&A panel with officials and experts.
We’re looking forward to the campaign delivering engaging, relatable content designed by young people, for young people, encouraging safer choices and stronger communities during fireworks season.
Fireworks season: Emergency services launch Operation Moonbeam 2025
Police Scotland is dedicating more resource than ever before to tackle crimes involving fireworks over the Bonfire Night period.
Operation Moonbeam 2025 is officially launched today – Friday, 24 October – and will once again see public order officers supporting colleagues from local policing divisions to tackle violence and disorder and protect communities from harm.
In 2024, there was a reduction in the number of serious order incidents across the country and the number of officers injured fell to one, compared with 62 in 2023.
However, the level of violence directed towards police and other emergency services was still of significant concern and additional resource is being provided to support local policing teams dealing with fireworks-related crime.
Operation Moonbeam was first launched in 2018, following serious disorder in various parts of the country which saw one officer in Edinburgh seriously injured when she was struck by a firework.
Overall, fireworks offences have seen a reduction since this time, but an increased targeting of emergency services has prompted a more robust response to tackling these incidents.
In addition to enhanced levels of specialist support, frontline officers in Edinburgh a will be equipped with Body Worn Video, as the national roll-out of this technology continues.
This will improve opportunities to identify those involved in criminal activity during this time, including attacks on police officers and emergency service workers.
Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs, Gold Commander for Operation Moonbeam, said: “Last year, following Bonfire Night, I reflected on what was a successful policing operation that saw a reduction in serious disorder offences and a dramatic reduction in the number of officers injured.
“As part of this year’s campaign, we will shortly be publishing some compelling stories from members of Police Scotland, Lothian Busses and affected communities highlighting the significant impact being involved in, or subject to attacks with fireworks can have.
“However, we still saw unacceptable levels of violence and disorder in parts of Glasgow and Edinburgh, leaving communities in these areas in a state of fear and alarm. This was wholly unacceptable, and we immediately launched a major criminal investigation to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.
“Over 60 people have been reported for their involvement in fireworks offences over the Bonfire Night period for 2024. I want to make it clear our pursuit of offenders for any crimes this year will be equally unrelenting. If you chose to create fear in your community, and if you chose to attack those who are deployed to keep people safe, you will face justice.
“We will use all available technology, resources and policing tactics at our disposal to keep our people safe while they, in turn work with other emergency service partners to protect the public from harm.
“Please help us make Bonfire Night 2025 a safe event for everyone looking to enjoy it.”
Community Safety Minister Siobhian Brown added: “We want everyone to enjoy Bonfire Night and I urge those planning to use fireworks to do so safely and responsibly.
“Misuse of fireworks puts communities and emergency services at risk and will not be tolerated. While Police Scotland reported a reduction in serious disorder on Bonfire Night last year, the Scottish Government will continue to support the police and courts in taking firm action against those who do break the law.
“We have brought in a number of measures to improve firework safety, including a ban on providing fireworks to under-18s and making attacks on emergency workers using fireworks an aggravating factor that courts can take into account when sentencing offenders. We have also provided local authorities with powers to designate firework control zones in local areas and a number of these will be in place this year.
“My thanks go to all the emergency services who have been working hard to ensure a safe Bonfire Night and who will again be on the front line to keep our communities safe.”
Andrew Laing, Deputy Crown Agent for Local Court at the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS), said: “Those who carry out reckless and dangerous public offending throughout the period of Bonfire Night can expect to be dealt with rigorously by the justice system.
“Those deliberately putting other people in danger may be held in custody by the police, remanded by the courts, and expect to receive a custodial sentence at the conclusion of the court case.
“Anyone seeking to obstruct or attack an emergency worker will be treated with the full force of the law.
“We stand fully behind justice partners in ensuring that the public and members of the emergency services are protected at all times.
“Our message to people who carry out this type of offending is that it carries serious consequences.
“We will always prosecute such matters where there is a sufficiency of evidence and it is in the public interest to do so.”
Police: Stay away from unsafe building
POLICE are asking the public to avoid entering a derelict premises on Dolphin Avenue in Currie following a number of calls from the community.
The derelict building has been damaged during attempts to gain entry, and the building is not in a stable condition.
Sergeant Mark Coull said: “We have received a number of calls over the last two weeks regarding entry being gained into a derelict premises in Currie.
“Luckily, no one has been hurt but this building is extremely unsafe, and by entering you are putting yourself and others at risk of injury.
“We would ask the public to stay away from the area and if you have any concerns, please call Police Scotland on 101.”
Hourglass: Failed Risk Tool Exposed
Older Victim-Survivors Deserve Better Safeguards
Hourglass – the only UK-wide charity dedicated to ending the abuse, harm, exploitation and neglect of older people – has responded to comments by the Safeguarding Minister, Jess Phillips, who admitted the DASH tool “doesn’t work”.
DASH – the UK’s main risk assessment tool for domestic abuse – could soon be scrapped, after mounting evidence shows it has repeatedly failed to identify high-risk cases.
For more than a decade, professionals across the UK have relied on DASH. Yet independent studies reveal that victims who were later killed, or suffered repeated abuse, were often assessed as only ‘standard’ or ‘medium’ risk. Families who lost loved ones are now taking legal action against institutions that relied on this flawed tool.
Hourglass has long warned that DASH was never fit for purpose when it came to older victim-survivors. Abuse in later life often looks very different: dependency on carers or family members, economic coercion, neglect and isolation.
By contrast, DASH questions were built around the experiences of younger victims, often focusing on stalking, harassment or recent relationship breakdowns.
Crucially, Hourglass reminds policymakers that abuse of older people is not just a women and girls’ issue:
- Older men make up a significant proportion of callers to the Hourglass helpline.
- Abuse can be perpetrated by adult children, relatives, or even professional carers – not just intimate partners.
- Risk tools designed solely within a VAWG (Violence Against Women and Girls) framework leave older men, and those outside traditional victim stereotypes, unseen and unsupported.
Richard Robinson, Chief Executive of Hourglass, said: “Older victim-survivors of abuse are too often invisible in the safeguarding system.
“Hourglass has never believed that DASH adequately reflected the realities of abuse in later life – whether those victims are women or men. Replacing DASH must be more than a technical fix.
“It must embed an age-inclusive, gender-inclusive understanding of abuse, backed by training, resourced services, and accountability across every agency.”
Hourglass is calling on government and safeguarding partners to:
- Ensure any replacement risk tool reflects the unique dynamics of abuse against older people, including economic dependence, carer-abuse, coercion at end of life, and age-related vulnerabilities.
- Recognise that older men as well as women are victims, and provide specialist services.
- Mandate specialist training for professionals so older victims are not ‘downgraded’ or dismissed as low-risk.
- Collect robust age- and gender-segmented data to monitor risk decisions and prevent systemic neglect of older victim-survivors.
Hourglass is urging those keen to support the charity to donate by visiting www.wearehourglass.org.uk/donate or Text SAFER to 70460 to donate £10.
Texts cost £10 plus one standard rate message and you’ll be opting in to hear more about our work and fundraising via telephone and SMS.
If you’d like to give £10 but do not wish to receive marketing communications, text SAFERNOINFO to 70460.