Fireworks and bonfires can be very distressing and dangerous for many people and animals across the country.
Please be aware that it is illegal for the general public to set fireworks off before 6pm and after 11pm in the evening. This extends to midnight on 5 November and 1am on New Year’s Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali.
The Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022 includes the prohibition of supplying fireworks or pyrotechnic articles, such as flares, to anyone under the age of 18 and will take effect from this year.
– You can enjoy fireworks safely by only attending organised public displays.
Be Kind
– Be mindful of the negative effect firework misuse can have on those around you, your neighbours, your community, animals in the area and the environment.
– Respect and support those who are there to help you like the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Police Scotland and the NHS.
Be Smart
– If it feels wrong or dangerous, walk away.
– Know what to do if someone gets hurt or you see something that worries you.
– You can report fireworks misuse or deliberate fire raising to Police Scotland by calling 101 or if you’re 11+ you can #BeFearless in speaking up about WHO is responsible for crime 100% anonymously at Fearless.org.
In an emergency ALWAYS dial 999.
Not following our #FireworkSafety guidance could end in tragic consequences.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is advising that the safest place to enjoy fireworks is at a professionally-organised public display as fewer people are injured here than at private gatherings.
Ashley Martin, RoSPA’s public health adviser, said: “We see hundreds of firework-related injuries every year, and they literally change lives, with people receiving scarring that requires lifelong treatment.”
“If there are organised displays available in your area we’d encourage members of the public to attend, as these will be put on by those trained in the use of fireworks, and will ensure that you and your family are safer.
However, as we head towards Bonfire Night and Diwali, we face the possibility that many public firework displays may not go ahead, whether it’s down to COVID-19, reduced stocks, or a change in safety labelling.
Ashley continued“If you are attending a private event, or putting on your own display, we’d urge you to adhere to the Firework Code, and make sure you are buying any fireworks only from reputable retailers. Please be aware that rules around the use of fireworks can vary depending on which part of the UK you live in.
“Check that the firework box carries a CE or UKCA mark, make sure you’re only buying category 2 and category 3 fireworks, and before using please check the distance requirements on the instructions.”
Thinking of holding a fireworks party?
Follow the Firework Code:
Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and check the time that you can legally set off fireworks
Only buy fireworks which carry the CE or UKCA mark, keep them in a closed box and use them one at a time
Read and follow the instructions on each firework, using a torch if necessary
Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back
Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks
Never return to a firework once it has been lit
Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them
Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators
Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire
Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.
Be Safe
