Tag: fireworks

Firefighters attacked last Bonfire Night urge people to go to organised displays

Firefighters who were pelted with stones and bricks at a Bonfire Night incident last year have urged people to go to organised displays.

Cumbernauld Community Fire Station’s Blue Watch was mobilised by Operations Control at 4.49pm on Friday, 5 November, 2021 to reports of a bonfire in the open in a grassy area near the North Lanarkshire town’s Torbrex Road.

What happened next took Crew Commander Glen Reid and his colleagues by surprise.

He said: “Once we arrived we had to extinguish the fire because of a gas leak in the area. I explained this to the bystanders and as soon as we started to put water on the fire we were pelted with bricks and stones.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/HWF_1d3kGCc

“We had to retreat back to the fire appliance where the vehicle then came under attack. We realised that we couldn’t get out the street because it had been blocked off with wheelie bins. Police attended the scene and the youths ran away.”

Three firefighters sustained minor injuries during the incident. Two attended hospital and were discharged the same evening. There was also surface damage to the appliance.

CC Reid, who has worked for the Service for more than two decades, added: “We couldn’t actually believe it to be honest with you.

“Someone could’ve been seriously hurt and this kind of behaviour puts an added strain on emergency services. As we get closer to Bonfire Night this year we’d urge people to always go to an organised event.”

Bonfire Night is one of the busiest nights of the year for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. In 2021, there were eight reported attacks on crews along with the three injuries.

Figures also indicate that firefighters responded to more than 370 bonfires across the country during an eight-hour period on 5 November.

In the weeks leading up to Bonfire Night, between 8 October and 5 November, crews around Scotland also attended more than 880 deliberate secondary fires, including bin fires and grass fires.

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Alasdair Perry is the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s head of prevention and protection. He said: “Attacks on our firefighters are completely unacceptable and are carried out by a small minority.”

We know that our crews have a lot of support within our communities. We want people to enjoy themselves at times of celebration but we want them to do so safely and think of others, including our crews who are working hard to respond to emergencies.

“Bonfires and fireworks go hand in hand at this time of year, and we advise people to go to an organised event wherever possible and always follow the Fireworks Code.”

See a list of organised events taking place across Scotland in our fireworks and bonfire safety section of our website.

FIREWORK SAFETY: Be Safe. Be Kind. Be Smart.

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.

💙Be Safe

– Follow the fireworks code here – https://www.firescotland.gov.uk/you…/fireworks-safety.aspx.

– 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.

– Find advice specific to animals here – https://www.scottishspca.org/news/fireworks-advice.

– 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.

#BeSafeBeKindBeSmart

Scottish SPCA

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Dogs Trust issues Howl-oween Advice 

Halloween can be a scary time of year not just for those participating in trick or treating, but for dogs, who may find unexpected knocks at the door and people dressed in costumes unsettling.

Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, is sharing its top tips for dog owners to help their pets have a safe and happy Halloween. 

Susan Tonner, Manager at Dogs Trust West Calder said: “Halloween can be fun for all the human members of the family, but for dogs it can be a frightening time of the year.

“Your dog may be exposed to many unfamiliar sights and sounds, and they could easily become overwhelmed by the number of knocks at the door from people they don’t recognise, combined with being unnerved by the sound of any fireworks.” 

There are lots of simple steps you can take to help keep your dog safe and happy this Halloween with Dogs Trust’s top tips: 

·       Adapt your routine in order to miss the costumes and fireworks  

It’s a good idea to head out before any festivities may begin and take extra tasty treats with you. If you spot any trick or treaters whilst you’re out, head away from them and reward your dog with a treat whilst you turn around to avoid any ghoulish encounters that might scare your dog.  

In the weeks leading up to Halloween, gradually change your dog’s routine by walking them earlier in the day to allow them time to exercise and toilet before dark. With more people out at night than normal, it’s best to keep your dog at home and in sight for safe keeping, whilst ensuring microchip details are kept up to date with the database in case they vanish out of the door during a trick or treat visit. Your dog also needs to wear an ID tag on their collar. 

·       Ensure your dog is comfortable 

Some dogs will benefit from having a safe place to retreat to should they feel worried. This should be a quiet and cosy familiar place in the house that will give them the chance to relax undisturbed.  

Some dogs may cope better by seeking reassurance, so give them attention and comfort if they seek this out and try to stay with them in the room they are most comfortable, so they know they aren’t alone. 

For other dogs who may not appear worried, it’s good to keep them occupied with their favourite items or activities. Experiment before the firework and spooky evenings begin, and slowly introduce them, to find out what your dog will enjoy the most.    

·       Keep human treats and sweets safely out of your dog’s reach 

Many human treats, especially chocolate, are toxic to dogs. It’s safest to keep these treats well out of your dog’s reach, and in case they accidently sneak a human treat, you can teach your dog to leave it before the trick or treaters start knocking.  

·       Be careful when opening doors so your dog doesn’t accidentally escape 

Before Halloween arrives, think about your dog’s access to the door. Popping your dog on a lead before you open the door or ensuring they don’t have access to the door when trick or treaters pop by will help to keep them safe. If you can’t close off access to your door, you can teach your dog to wait at doorways, decreasing the chance of your dog running out the door or jumping up at trick or treaters. 

·       Keep the costumes and dressing up for humans only 

Adding a new and unfamiliar item for your dog to wear can cause them to be uncomfortable. You should also be aware of anything that could cause abrasions or irritations, resulting in your dog overheating, or stopping them from expressing normal behaviour. 

·       Feed your dog their main meals before the trick or treating begins so they can eat at a relaxed time 

You could save a small portion of their food to prepare some food-based enrichment activities for later in the evening, to help keep them calm and relaxed. 

·       Think twice about taking your dog out trick or treating 

Even dogs who aren’t fazed by people dressed up and all the excitement involved with Halloween may not enjoy it for as long as you do. They might prefer to be at home in their safe and comfy space with their favourite enrichment activity and toys. 

Halloween is the start of a disruptive and noisy week for dogs with fireworks also happening in the lead up to Bonfire Night.  

Susan adds: “Dogs have approximately four times more sensitive hearing than humans, so the loud cracks and bangs of fireworks can often be a terrifying experience for them.

“Following the recent news that firework displays that are run by local councils have been cancelled in some parts of the UK, there may be a rise in people hosting private firework displays at home.  

“We urge dog owners to be extra prepared for a rise in neighbourhood displays, and to look at our full guidance on how to help their dogs stay safe and settled during fireworks. Private firework displays may not be limited to one night, so it is very important for all dog owners to seek out advice early, in order to have a comfortable fireworks season with their dog.” 

For guidance on how to help your dog cope during fireworks, visit the Dogs Trust website  

If you are planning to host a firework display at home: 

·       Let your neighbours know well in advance, so they can prepare their dogs.  

·       Limit your display to 30 minutes or less.  

·       Opt for quieter, lower decibel fireworks.   

For some fun, dog friendly ideas for a ‘cosy night in’, try our pumpkin treats. 

For further information on keeping your dog safe and happy at Halloween, please head to our website: Halloween advice | Dogs Trust 

Firework Safety: Be Safe. Be Kind. Be Smart.

Help us keep children safe this Bonfire Night. We are encouraging parents, carers and teachers to help us educate children on firework safety.

Did you know Scottish SPCA has lots of helpful advice, games and videos for children to watch.

Visit https://www.scottishspca.org/firework-safety to find out more.

#OpCrackle
#FireworkSafety

Hopetoun House Fireworks & Bonfire Night back in a blaze of glory

Much-loved event returns after two-year pandemic pause  

The skies above Hopetoun House will light up again when its fabulous fireworks and bonfire night extravaganza returns this November. 

November 5 sees the 11th year of this hugely popular event which was put on hold for two years as a result of the pandemic but is due to attract 5,000 revellers. 

Now back in a blaze of glory with a We Will Rock You spectacular, it features fireworks that promise to rock your heart plus fairground attractions, the famous bonfire and lots more family fun. 

Enjoy the entertainment of daring fire dancers, savour some delicious dishes from the food trucks, warm up with indulgent hot chocolate and mallows, then just gaze heavenwards and take in the glittering show in the sky set to music. 

Designed and produced by Scottish events experts 21CC Group and hosted at beautiful Hopetoun House, South Queensferry on the outskirts of Edinburgh, the event will definitely deliver a night to remember. 

Geoff Crow, Director of 21CC Group says: “It’s fantastic to be back and we are thrilled to present this year’s spectacular. It’s always a sell-out and this year is sure to be no different.

“We’re pulling out all the stops to make up for the last couple of years and have put together a truly stunning show.”  

The event runs from 4 – 7.30pm on Saturday, November 5 with the firework display at 6.30pm. Tickets must be purchased in advance and children three years and under are admitted free. 

The Earl of Hopetoun says: “We’re delighted to see this exciting event return to Hopetoun. It was a tradition for more than a decade and has been much missed over the last couple of years.

“It’s always a stunning display that brings so much fun and this year it sounds like it will be even better than ever.” 

For more information and ticket prices please visit:

https://hopetounfireworks.co.uk/about 

A safer Scotland as Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles Bill passed

New legislation to control the sale and use of fireworks will improve public safety and benefit communities for years to come.

The Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill passed following a Scottish Parliament debate and introduces a fireworks licensing system, with mandatory safety training, for people wishing to purchase and use fireworks.

It also introduces powers for local authorities to designate firework control zones, restrictions on the supply and use of fireworks, and a new offence to criminalise the supply of fireworks and pyrotechnics to under-18s.

Being in possession of a firework or other pyrotechnic in a public place, or at certain places or events, without reasonable excuse also becomes an offence.

The passage of the Bill saw extensive consultation and stakeholder engagement with the legislation receiving strong backing from a coalition of professional medical bodies who described it as an “historic achievement” and “a major step forward for injury prevention in the community”.

Community Safety Minister Ash Regan said: “This ground-breaking new legislation will improve the lives of people right across Scotland.

“This is not a ban on fireworks. We still want people to enjoy them safely, for example attending organised displays.

“But this vitally important step will make firework use more predictable and safer. The Bill will ensure appropriate action can be taken over the dangerous or disruptive use of fireworks, as well as reducing the misuse of pyrotechnic devices such as flares.

“It also demonstrates our absolute commitment to further improve safety for communities across Scotland.

“I am deeply grateful for valued support and consideration this Bill received from NHS staff, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, the Scottish SPCA and Police Scotland.”

Eleanor Robertson, Senior Clinical Research Fellow, Burns and Plastic Surgery at Glasgow’s Royal Infirmary said: “Having witnessed the initial and lasting impacts of firework injuries, we welcome any move to protect people in Scotland from firework-related harm.

“Incidents involving fireworks and pyrotechnics can be devastating to those impacted and can alter someone’s quality of life permanently.”

Gilly Mendes Ferreira, head of innovation and strategic relations for the Scottish SPCA, said: “The passing of this Bill will help to tackle the impact that private use in particular can have and help to keep communities across Scotland safe.

“We always ask that that the public enjoy fireworks responsibly and be mindful of the negative effect their misuse can have on people and animals.”

Cats Protection calls for tighter controls over fireworks to protect cats in Scotland

The UK’s leading cat charity Cats Protection has backed plans to restrict the use of fireworks across Scotland.

The proposals – under the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill – would mean members of the public purchasing or using fireworks would need a license, and public displays would be restricted to certain days of the year, such as Bonfire Night, Hogmanay, Diwali and Chinese New Year.

Cats Protection’s Advocacy & Government Relations Officer for Scotland Alice Palombo said the proposals would help reduce stress for pet cats, give owners the chance to ensure their pets are indoors during displays, and help protect stray and feral cats which may have no indoor refuge from fireworks.

She said: “Fireworks are incredibly stressful for cats and other animals, especially if their owner has not had the chance to ensure that their cat is indoors and safe. They are also stressful to cats that do not live indoors such as stray and feral cats.

“Cats associate sudden loud noises and flashes of light with imminent threat, and their natural instinct is to flee. However, as cats struggle to locate the source of noise, this often means that they will bolt in an unfavourable direction which may not provide protection. In busy cities, cats are in danger of running into traffic, or becoming lost in an unknown territory.

“We would also like to see a reduction in the maximum noise level of fireworks. Cats have sensitive hearing, having one of the widest ranges of hearing in mammals. The current maximum permitted firework noise level of 120 decibels can cause damage to cats’ hearing, even if there is only brief exposure.”

Cats Protection, the UK’s largest feline welfare charity, has a Scottish network of 22 volunteer-run branches, four adoption centres, and nine charity shops which also offer advice on cat care.

The charity’s Cats and their Stats (CATS) Scotland Report 2021 found 53% of cat owners in Scotland reported that their cat showed signs of stress because of fireworks.

As well as a licensing system, Cats Protection supports the introduction of Firework Control Zones, where the use of fireworks would be temporarily prohibited, but the charity says these zones need to ban fireworks all year round to be effective. Cats Protection says Firework Control Zones should include areas near animal rehoming centres, or in other areas where there are known to be a high number of animals, such as an outdoor feral cat colony.

Cats Protection’s Glasgow Adoption Centre Manager Kim MacKrell said: “Many cats that come into our care find fireworks very stressful. Designating areas close to animal shelters and rehoming centres as Firework Control Zones will protect the health of cats and other animals and potentially reduce their stress.

“It is important that Firework Control Zones operate throughout the year to protect cats from the fear and stress caused by the sudden loud noises and flashes of light from fireworks.”

Cats Protection recommends cats are kept indoors with the TV or radio on and with the curtains drawn overnight while fireworks are being used, however, they are still at risk of suffering from stress due to the sounds.

If cats experience chronic stress this often has a negative effect over time on their physical health, such as cystitis, or leads to behavioural problems such as house soiling, redirected aggression to owners and destructive behaviour around the household.

More advice about what cat owners can do to keep cats safe and relaxed while fireworks can be found at www.cats.org.uk/help-and-advice/home-and-environment/fireworks

Crackdown: Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Bill published

Reducing the negative impact of fireworks and pyrotechnics on communities across Scotland is at the heart of new legislation. The Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill proposes tougher action on the sale and use of fireworks and the misuse of pyrotechnics.

The Bill follows the report of an independent Firework Review Group which recommended tightening legislation to reduce the harm fireworks can cause.

An analysis of the public consultation, published in December 2021, showed strong support for key measures in the Bill amongst those who responded.

The Bill’s proposals include:

  • the introduction of a fireworks licensing system
  • a new power for local authorities to designate firework control zones, where it is not permitted for the public to use fireworks
  • restricting the days fireworks can be sold to and used by the general public
  • a new offence to criminalise the supply of fireworks and pyrotechnics to under-18s to ensure adults do not purchase such products on behalf of children
  • a new offence of being in possession of a pyrotechnic while at, or travelling to, certain places or events, without reasonable excuse

Community Safety Minister Ash Regan said: “This Bill will ensure appropriate action is taken over the sale and use of fireworks as well as reducing the misuse of pyrotechnic devices such as flares.

“We have undertaken a significant programme of engagement and evidence gathering which has demonstrated strong public support for tougher action.

“We have already moved quickly to introduce regulations restricting the times of day and the volume of fireworks that can be supplied to the public – as well as the times fireworks can be set off.

“This Bill demonstrates our absolute commitment to further improve safety for communities across Scotland.”

Police Scotland Chief Superintendent Linda Jones of Partnership, Prevention and Community Wellbeing said: “Pyrotechnics in the wrong hands can be lethal. They are inherently dangerous and their ongoing misuse is a matter of serious concern to Police Scotland. This is not only due to the risks faced by those who may discharge them, but to those around them.

“There is no safe way to operate pyrotechnics unless you are properly trained – leave it to the experts at organised events.”

Director of Service Delivery for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Assistant Chief Officer Stuart Stevens said: “It is clear the inappropriate use of fireworks and pyrotechnics such as flares can cause harm and serious injury as well as distress people, pets and the wider community.

“In some cases, fireworks have also been linked to anti-social behaviour which can put our crews and our partners at risk whilst drawing unnecessarily on our emergency service resources. We therefore welcome measures to help keep our communities, staff and partners safe.”

Clinical Research Fellow at the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Canniesburn Department of Plastic Surgery Eleanor Robertson said: “We are delighted this Bill is being introduced.

“Firework safety campaigns raise awareness of the hazards and provide risk-reduction strategies, but pediatrics and adult patients continue to present with severe hand and eye injuries. We believe the proposed legislation will substantially reduce both direct and indirect harm from fireworks.”

Head of Education, Policy and Research at the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Gilly Mendes Ferreira said: “We realise people still want to enjoy fireworks and we always ask that they do it responsibly.

“Misuse of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices can have a negative effect on people and animals across the country and we will always support the introduction of any preventative measures that will help keep Scotland’s people and animals safe.”

Public support for crackdown on fireworks in Scotland

Tougher action on the sale and use of fireworks and tackling the misuse of pyrotechnics has been backed in a new consultation.

The public consultation, which attracted a total of 1,739 responses, asked for views on the Scottish Government’s Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Bill.

The proposed Bill follows the report of an independent Fireworks Review Group which recommended tightening legislation to reduce the harm fireworks can cause.

The consultation, published today, shows that of those who responded on these individual issues:

  • 92% agreed with the introduction of a new offence to criminalise the supply of fireworks to under-18s
  • 84% backed the introduction of a fireworks licensing system
  • 77% backed a new offence of being in possession of a pyrotechnic in a public place without reasonable excuse or lawful authority
  • 70% agreed with extending police powers to allow a stop and search provision in relation to pyrotechnics
  • more than 60% agreed with restrictions for the general public on the days fireworks can be sold and used

Community Safety Minister Ash Regan said: “The consultation builds on a significant programme of engagement and evidence gathering and demonstrated the range of views among those who responded.

“I am committed to making our communities safer and we have already moved quickly to introduce regulations restricting the times of day and the volume of fireworks that can be supplied to the public – as well as the times fireworks can be set off.

“We are intent on further improving safety for communities across Scotland by taking forward the Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Bill at the earliest opportunity to ensure appropriate action is taken over the sale and use of fireworks and to reduce the misuse of pyrotechnic devices such as flares.”