Tag: RoSPA

RoSPA: The three items new parents need to know how to use safely

THIS Child Safety Week, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has identified three products that can cause devastation if used incorrectly and urges parents and carers to skill up on the risks.

Following devastating stories in the press about babies who have died, RoSPA says there’s still more work to do when it comes to education around baby slings, nappy sacks and baby baths.

Baby slings

Baby slings have become a popular choice for parents, offering a convenient way to carry their infants while keeping their hands free. However, safety is largely dependent on the safe usage of slings.

As with all child-related products, RoSPA says it is vital to follow safety advice and manufacturer’s guidelines, and that parents should always check the instructions relating to size, weight and age. Importantly, baby slings should never be used for premature or underweight babies, as these scenarios pose a risk of death.

RoSPA advocates products that keep babies upright and allow parents to see their baby and to ensure that the face isn’t restricted. Babies should be able to breathe easily, be at a comfortable temperature, and held in positions that are healthy and beneficial for them.                                         

The Consortium of UK Sling Manufacturers and Retailers provides the following advice to baby sling wearers: “Keep your baby close and keep your baby safe. When you’re wearing a sling or carrier, don’t forget the T.I.C.K.S acronym”:

  • Tight
  • In view at all times
  • Close enough to kiss
  • Keep chin off the chest
  • Supported back.

Philip Le Shirley, Product Safety Advisor at RoSPA, said: “Baby wearing is a natural phenomenon that has been around since the dawn of time – and while we encourage people to find a way to carry and connect with their children, we are keen to highlight how to do so safely.

“We urge people to be aware of the TICKS advice and to always ensure the carrier they are using is suitable for their child’s height and weight – they should never be used for underweight or premature babies.”

Bath seats

Since 2019, RoSPA is aware of at least 5 deaths that have been reported where babies have drowned in baths using baby bath seats. 

There are several bath seats and other devices on the market that enable a young child to remain seated whilst in the bathwater. 

The main risk with these products is the baby being left unattended (even for short periods of time), the seat then tipping over or become detached and the baby sadly drowning.

If parents do choose to use a bath seat, they should:

  • always keep the child within arm’s reach
  • never leave the child, even for a second
  • do not let bath seats give you a false sense of security – bath seats are NOT safety devices

Philip Le Shirley, Product Safety Advisor at RoSPA, said: “A child can drown in a bath very quickly and quietly in very shallow water. This situation can be made worse by a young child’s inability to self-rescue – their heads still weigh proportionately more than their bodies compared to adults and their muscular control is not yet fully developed.

“We therefore would like to remind parents and carers that they should always stay within arms reach of their baby at all times when they are in the bath, and that it’s not safe to leave them unattended, even for a few seconds.”

For more information on bath seat safety, please see here.

Nappy sacks

Parents and carers are generally aware of the dangers posed by plastic bags, but in many cases do not make the same link to nappy sacks and so may be less likely to take the same safety precautions.

RoSPA is aware of at least 22 deaths since 2001 where a baby has been suffocated by a nappy sack. The typical scenario associated with deaths is that the nappy sacks are stored within the baby’s reach, close to the baby’s cot, including under the mattress.

This method of storage is often for the convenience of the parent or carer. In some of the cases, the nappy sacks had been left near to or in the baby’s cot for ease of changing the baby’s nappy in the night.

In many homes these loose nappy sacks are kept within easy reach of babies, under the baby’s pram, or close to the baby’s cot.  In other cases, nappy sacks are left loose on the side are at risk of blowing into the cot from the wind, or being accessed by the child’s young siblings who don’t understand the risks.

Philip Le Shirley, Product Safety Advisor at RoSPA, said: “Young babies naturally grasp at anything and put it in their mouths, and once they have grasped a nappy sack, they find it more difficult to let go. Nappy sacks are flimsy and can easily fit over a baby’s mouth or nose or into a baby’s mouth.

“Babies under one-year-old are particularly at risk of suffocation and choking from plastic sheets and bags.  Once the nappy sack is over their face, they do not have the manual dexterity to remove the nappy sack, which can result in suffocation.

“We therefore advise parents and carers to make some simple changes that can increase their child’s safety, such as always keeping nappy sacks and other plastic bags away from babies and young children, and to always store them out of reach, ideally in a drawer or cupboard, and out of close proximity to cots, sleepers and prams. 

“Nappy sacks should be kept in their packaging, including on a roll if supplied that way, and never stored loose”

For more information on nappy sack safety, please see here.

ROSPA: Drive with added caution amid looming cold weather

  • The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has issued urgent guidance to those travelling in cold and snowy weather
  • Disruptive conditions are set to hit many areas of the UK
  • Road experts warn of increased chance of collisions

With icy temperatures and ‘disruptive’ snow hitting large parts of Britain, and parts of the UK still grappling with flooding, leading road experts The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has issued some vital road safety advice.

Advising on winter driving, Rebecca Guy, RoSPA’s Road Safety Manager for England, said: “Snowy conditions can pose a real challenge for drivers so it’s worth knowing how to prepare yourself so your journey can be as smooth as possible.

“Before you set off, check the weather conditions to ensure you’re not caught out, and don’t forget to wipe off snow from the top and windows of your car. This will avoid snow falling onto your windscreen while driving and impacting your line of sight. In very bad conditions, avoid driving completely, unless you absolutely have to make the journey and driving is the only option.

“It’s also a good idea to leave more time than usual for your journey, and to check your tyres, fluid levels, lights and fuel or charge levels before you set off. If your journey is essential, packing some warm clothing, a fully charged mobile phone, some food and a drink can help you to be prepared if you do break down – and even a pair of sunglasses can stand you in good stead in case the sun comes out and reflects on the road ahead.

“If you can, try and move off in second gear and change to a higher gear as soon as possible once the car is moving. Ensure you accelerate gently and smoothly, using low revs. Ideally, stay in a steady gear and leave as much room in front of you as possible so you can maintain a constant speed – and don’t forget that stopping distance can be increased up to 10 times in snowy weather.”

Other factors to consider if driving in snow or ice:

  • Slow down in plenty of time before bends and corners
  • Braking on an icy or snow-covered bend is extremely dangerous. The centrifugal force will continue to pull you outwards and the wheels will not grip very well. This could cause your vehicle to spin
  • Increase the gap between you and the vehicle in front. You may need up to 10 times the distance for braking in good conditions
  • Visibility will probably be reduced, so use dipped headlights

If you get stuck in snow:

  • If you get stuck in snow, revving your engine to try to power out of the rut will just make the rut worse. Instead, move your vehicle slowly backwards and forwards out of the rut using the highest gear you can
  • If this doesn’t work, you may have to ask a friendly passerby for a push or get your shovel out.

Rebecca went on to advise those encountering flood water: “The past few weeks have seen a concerning level of flooding in many areas of the UK. It is essential to have the latest information at hand to avoid roads or pathways that are submerged in water.

“Not only can a flooded car be costly, it can lead to drowning so it is important to never attempt to drive through a waterlogged area, especially If the road has been closed off.

“Before leaving the house, consider whether your vehicle really is in a roadworthy condition for extreme weather, and check its tyres, brakes, lights and fluid levels.

“If your vehicle is not in tip-top condition, you are more likely to break down and get stranded. Therefore, keep an emergency kit in your car, especially if you’re going on a long journey. If this seems unnecessary, take a moment to imagine yourself stranded in your car overnight. ”

If you’re in a flooded area, it is also worth considering the following when nearing an affected road:

  • Avoid the deepest water – which is usually near the kerb
  • Don’t attempt to cross if the water seems too deep
  • If you are not sure of the water’s depth, look for an alternative route
  • If you decide to risk it, drive slowly in first gear but keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch – this will stop you from stalling
  • Be aware of the bow wave from approaching vehicles – operate an informal ‘give way’ with approaching vehicles.

For more information, please visit our Winter Driving Tips page here.

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RoSPA: Beware of button batteries this January

Following a potential influx of toys and gadgets into people’s homes after Christmas, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is reminding people of the dangers of button batteries.

While toys are required to have a secure compartment for button batteries, other items like electronic car keys, novelties and light up accessories are not. And after the UK has seen some tragic deaths and injuries in recent years, there has never been a more important time to learn about the dangers.

What are the dangers of button batteries?

  • When mixed with saliva, live or dead batteries release caustic soda which can easily burn through flesh.
  • This can burn through organs, such as from the oesophagus to the heart.
  • It can cause catastrophic internal bleeding, and a child might not always be able to articulate how they are feeling or that they have ingested one.
  • Children are particularly at risk due to having a smaller digestive tract which makes it more likely button batteries can get lodged.
  • If a parent or carer suspects their child has swallowed a button battery, get immediate medical attention.

What are some of the signs to look out for?

-Suddenly developing a cough, gagging or drooling a lot

– Being sick and having an upset stomach

– Pointing to their throat or stomach

– Having tummy, chest or throat pain

 -Being quiet or more clingy than usual

– Having a reduced appetite and not wanting to eat.

Phillip LeShirley, Product Safety Advisor at RoSPA, said: “The dangers posed by button batteries should not be underestimated, and RoSPA welcomes the news that Standards for Toys have been strengthened recently to reduce further the risks that button batteries pose. 

“We are advising parents to be mindful that it is not just toys that contain button batteries, and to be extra vigilant.”

RoSPA: UK road safety progress has come to a grinding halt

  • The World Health Organisation released its Global Status Report on Road Safety
  • Stats show the UK has made much less progress in the last decade when compared to the decade before
  • RoSPA: The Government must publish its long overdue Road Safety Strategic Framework as soon as possible and set casualty reduction targets in line with other G7 countries

The United Kingdom is lagging behind other European countries when it comes to road safety progress in reducing the number of people killed on its roads.

The latest Global Status Report on Road Safety should be a wakeup call to Government, leading accident prevention charity The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has said.

RoSPA is calling for the Government to publish its long overdue Road Safety Strategic Framework which has not been updated in England since 2019.

According to the latest figures from the report[1] and RoSPA’s analysis of recent road safety statistics[2], the UK road safety progress has come to a grinding halt since 2010, with fatalities and injuries plateauing.

This December marks a decade of stagnation, during which we have seen a five per cent reduction in deaths across Great Britain versus a 46 per cent reduction across UK in the decade to 2010. 

While road safety in the UK has stalled, overall, the European region has seen a 36 per cent reduction in road deaths.

David Walker, Head of Road and Leisure Safety at RoSPA, said: “We are seeing around 81 people killed or seriously injured on our roads every day, which is unacceptable and evidently linked to the dramatic lack of UK road safety progress over the last decade.


“We cannot and must not wait to act and urge the Government to publish its long overdue Road Safety Strategic Framework for England, and to set out casualty reduction targets that are in line with other G7 nations. Only then can we begin to address our woeful position on the road safety leaderboard.”

RoSPA: Make it an accident-free December to remember

  • RoSPA: with overall hospital admissions up across the board it’s more important than ever to prevent accidents and both reduce pressure on the NHS and ensure people’s Christmas isn’t ruined by spending hours in overcrowded A&Es.
  • RoSPA: Have fun and enjoy the festive period safely

Enjoy the festive season but make it a safe one too, that’s the message from accident prevention experts, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), ahead of the Christmas chaos.

NHS figures show that overall total hospital admissions for all causes were up last year[i], with over half a million emergency admissions – the equivalent to the population of Edinburgh requiring urgent treatment. 

Jim Oram, Public Health Project Officer at RoSPA advises reducing accident risk to avoid spending hours in overcrowded accident and emergency departments:  “It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement during the festive period, but having more people in the home can add to the risks.

“With some forward planning and awareness of potential hazards, your festive season can be safe and happy for everyone.”  

Here are RoSPA’s top tips to stay safe this festive season:   

  1. Reduce the risk of a fall

In the UK, we saw 7,229 patients admitted to hospital last December with hip fractures and that was up 20 per cent on the year before[1]. Keep yourself and loved ones safe by keeping the floor, stairs and walkways clear, and clean up any spillages as soon as you can. And if the weather takes an icy turn, grit the paths and walkways outside. 

  1. Only purchase gifts from reputable traders

When buying presents, opt for reputable retailers, especially when shopping online. If a trader does not have a high street presence in the UK, check online reviews before buying.  Online sellers should have a UK address listed on their website.

Look for the CE, UKCA, UKNI, and Lion marks on toys, and check for age-appropriateness and warnings.

Button batteries in toys should always be inside a lockable compartment, and any magnets used in toys should be secure to avoid ingestion.
 

  1. Prepare for young visitors

There are some fantastically fun novelty decorations out at this time of year, but it’s important to remember these are not toys and therefore do not have to comply with toy safety regulations.

If you have a young family or have children visiting, always be mindful of decorations they could put into their mouths. Some decorations are particularly risky, such as ones with unsecure button batteries, ones made from glass and those with magnets inside. It’s also worth having a check that cleaning products, vapes and medications are kept out of reach, and blind cords have the appropriate safety fixtures. 

  1. Think fire safety

Last year there were nearly 200,000 house fires in the UK alone[2], so taking fire safety seriously is key.

Use electrical candles over real flames, keep decorations and cards away from heat sources, replace old Christmas lights and try not to leave anything plugged in overnight. 

  1. Maximise kitchen safety

It’s a familiar scene – the chef cooking the roasties while helpers ferry plates from A to B, and children run around high on the festivities of the day. And while everyone should enjoy the atmosphere, it’s best to keep spirits high by avoiding accidents. Allow ample time to avoid accidents from rushing and where possible, keep non-helpers out of the kitchen.

Figures from the Hip Fracture Database indicate a peak in falls around December[3], so be sure to clean up spills and clutter promptly to reduce the risk of your family or friends falling over.

  1. Keep hot crockery and drinks out of reach

Burns are the fourth common form of trauma worldwide, after road traffic collisions, falls and interpersonal violence[4], with around half of those affected children. With a higher frequency of hot drinks, food, and cooked edibles around, be mindful to keep hot pans, plates and drinks out of reach. 

RoSPA’s warning to public against bad bargains this Black Friday

With Black Friday sales in full swing, leading accident prevention charity The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is urging shoppers to know what to look for to ensure they’re buying safe products:

  1. Only purchase from reputable traders

If a trader does not have a high street presence in the UK, check online reviews before buying.  Online sellers should have a UK address listed on their website.

  1. Look for the appropriate toy safety marks

In England, Scotland and Wales only buy costumes or toys which carry UKCA or CE marks. In the case of Northern Ireland look for the UKNI symbol along with the UKCA or CE mark.

Shoppers can also look for the Lion Mark, which members of the British Toy and Hobby Association can use to mark a safe product.

All fancy-dress costumes, including wigs and face masks, should be flame-retardant in accordance with EN71 part 2 – the safety standard for flammability of toys. 

Additionally, items sold in the UK by a member of the British Retail Consortium (BRC) are likely to have been made to a higher standard of fire safety and labelled with the words ‘This garment has undergone additional safety testing for flammability.’

  1. Make sure toys are age appropriate

Age recommendations on toys are based on research from manufacturers and considers safety, which is why we recommend using age-appropriate toys, and being mindful of younger siblings accessing them.

  1. Beware of button batteries

Many toys and gadgets run on lithium-ion button batteries, which can cause catastrophic injuries if ingested. While The Toy Safety Regulations state that toys with button batteries in should have lockable battery compartments, they might still become unsecure or damaged.

Be extra vigilant with all bargains bought this Black Friday, particularly with electronic devices, flameless candles and musical greetings cards.

  1. Be mindful of magnets

From decorations and toys to fake piercings and more, magnets are often found in products. Much like button batteries, if they are ingested, they have the potential to cause significant injuries.

  1. Inspect your electricals

The Black Friday sales can be the time that people wait to make their electrical purchases, but products without the appropriate safety marks can cause fires and devastation.  In England, Scotland and Wales only buy electricals which carry UKCA or CE marks. In the case of Northern Ireland look for the UKNI symbol along with the UKCA or CE mark.

The above advice also applies to e-scooters and e-bikes, and they should always be charged in a place outside the home if possible.

Philip LeShirley, Product Safety Advisor at RoSPA, said: “Black Friday and Cyber Monday provide great opportunities for consumers to save money, especially when buying Christmas presents for loved ones. 

“RoPSA encourages all consumers to do some checks on sellers and products before they purchase items, as some “bargains” can in fact be unsafe products, or not suitable for the age of the recipient.”

RoSPA: Control your speed to save lives this season

Reduce your speed to save lives, that’s the message from The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) as we head into some of the darkest months of the year.

The most recent Department for Transport (DfT) data revealed that in 2022, there were around 40,000 people injured on our roads during hours of darkness. This included 8,780 people who were seriously injured, and 737 who sadly died.

Rebecca Guy, Road Safety Manager, said: “This time of year sees a worrying combination of darker skies and poor weather conditions, which can pose unique risks to motorists and pedestrians and cyclists – these risks are amplified if someone is speeding.

“Higher speeds mean that drivers have less time to identify and react to what is happening around them, and it takes longer for the vehicle to stop, removes the driver’s safety margin and turns near misses into collisions.

“Driving at 30mph, vehicles are travelling at around three car lengths a second – one blink and the driver may fail to see the early warning brake lights; a short glance away and the movement of a child behind a parked car could be missed[i].

“With that in mind, and the poor visibility this season poses, it’s clear to see the tragic consequences speeding could have.”

RoSPA advises the following when driving in darker periods of the day:

Be prepared: As the UK experiences shorter days and longer nights, it is crucial for motorists to adjust their driving habits. The decreased visibility during early mornings and evenings demands heightened caution. RoSPA urges drivers to use dipped headlights, ensure clean windshields, and to be extra cautious when navigating poorly lit roads.

Control your speed: Darkness amplifies the risks associated with speeding. The lack of visibility, compounded by higher speeds, can lead to devastating collisions. The DfT reports that in 2022, exceeding the speed limit was deemed a contributory factor for 19% of all fatal collisions. In 9 per cent of fatal collisions, driving too fast for the conditions was deemed a contributory factor[ii]. RoSPA emphasises that adhering to speed limits and driving to the conditions is paramount, especially when daylight hours are limited.

Rebecca Guy continues: “If you must travel in the dark, I suggest leaving ample time for the journey, ensuring you can travel within the speed limit, and maintain a safe distance behind other road users.

“As we age, our ability to adapt to changing light reduces, which impacts how we see colours and contrasts in low-light conditions. It also takes longer for the eyes to recover from glare – from one second at age 15, to nine seconds at 65.”

Be carbon monoxide aware to save your life, says RoSPA

  • Carbon Monoxide Awareness week runs 20 – 26 November
  • RoSPA: Carbon monoxide is a silent killer that can cause symptoms mistaken for other ailments like headaches and the flu
  • Awareness and having carbon monoxide alarm(s) is key to reducing accidents 

This Carbon Monoxide Week, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has issued a stark warning to be aware of the dangers of the silent killer that causes over 4000 A&E visits and 440 hospital admissions a year in England alone.

According to RoSPA, carbon monoxide poisoning is an underdiagnosed problem in the UK, with the signs and symptoms of low-level carbon monoxide toxicity confused for other ailments like headache, nausea, flushing, the flu, muscle pain, food poisoning and depression.

Poisoning is more prevalent in the winter months, likely related to the increased indoor use of heating and other devices which are common sources of carbon monoxide, such as incorrectly installed fuel-burning appliances, blocked chimneys, gas ovens inappropriately used for heating, and barbecues or gas stoves used in enclosed spaces.

What to do if you are exposed to carbon monoxide

If your carbon monoxide alarm sounds or you believe there to be a leak (unignited gas does not contain carbon monoxide):

  • stop using all appliances and evacuate the property immediately
  • call the relevant National Gas Emergency Service number to report the incident or the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Gas Safety Advice Line on 0800 300 363
  • do not go back into the property (wait for advice from the emergency services)
  • get immediate medical help.

If you think you have been exposed to carbon monoxide and feel unwell or are worried call NHS 111, contact your GP or in an emergency contact emergency services on 999.

The relevant National Gas Emergency Service number you need depends on where in the UK you’re based and the type of gas that’s involved:

CountryNatural Gas (NG)Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG)Towns Gas/Mains Gas**
England, Wales and Scotland0800 111 999Contact number on bulk storage vessel or meter*N/A
Northern Ireland0800 002 001Contact number on bulk storage vessel or meter*N/A
Isle of Man0808 1624 4440808 1624 4440808 1624 444
GuernseyN/A01481 74900001481 749000
JerseyN/A01534 75555501534 755555

Phil Le Shirley, Public Safety Advisor at RoSPA said: “With the colder months almost upon us and more people using fuel-burning appliances, it’s vital to be aware that carbon monoxide poisoning is silent and can often be confused with other ailments like a headache, nausea, flushing, the flu, muscle pain, food poisoning and depression.

“Carbon monoxide is colourless, tasteless and odourless, so it is essential that you fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm that meets British or European Standards (BS Kitemark or EN 50291).

“We recommend testing the alarm at least once a week, changing the batteries regularly and replacing the whole alarm before its expiration date.

“Finally, if you’re camping or caravanning, irrespective of how cold or rainy it gets, ensure that there is adequate ventilation when using fuel-burning products and always have a carbon monoxide alarm with you.”

Phil went on to describe what you should do depending on the type of fuel appliance you have at home: “We recommend only using a qualified Gas Safe engineer to install gas boilers and appliances and advise that they are serviced annually by Gas Safe approved technicians.

“Solid fuel appliances should be installed and serviced annually by a qualified HETAS engineer, and chimneys and flues should be kept clean by being swept from top to bottom at least once a year by a qualified chimney sweep and should not be blocked.”

“It is also advised that oil heaters should be installed and serviced annually by a qualified OFTEC engineer.”

For further information on carbon monoxide, please visit RoSPA’s carbon monoxide pages.

RoSPA: Have fun but stay safe this Bonfire Night

Fireworks are fun when enjoyed safely – that’s the message from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), as the nation prepares for bonfire night celebrations. 

RoSPA says that attending an organised display is the safest option, but with some people unable to get out and about and some local councils cancelling firework displays, there could be an uptick in people celebrating at home. And with every bonfire night witnessing serious injury cases, RoSPA recommends anyone hosting a display at home to read its firework safety advice.

Anyone planning on celebrating Bonfire Night should know:

  • It is illegal to buy or give a firework to anyone under the age of 18 except for category F1 fireworks.
  • It is illegal to set fireworks off before 6pm and after 11pm. This extends to midnight on 5 November and 1am on Hogmanay, Chinese New Year and Diwali.
  • It is illegal to use fireworks in the street or other public places.
  • Sparklers reach extremely hot temperatures and can cause severe burns to young children.  It is not recommended to give them to under 5s.
  • Follow the Firework Code and read instructions before use.
  • Not all fireworks are suitable for private use, it depends on the size of your garden – so do your research before purchasing.

RoSPA’s 10 Point Firework Code: 

  1. Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and check the time you can legally set off fireworks 
  2. In England, Scotland and Wales only buy fireworks which carry UKCA or CE marks. In the case of Northern Ireland look for the UKNI symbol along with the UKCA or CE mark. Keep your fireworks in a closed box, and use them one at a time 
  3. Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary 
  4. Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back 
  5. Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks 
  6. Never return to a firework once it has been lit 
  7. Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them 
  8. Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators 
  9. Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire 
  10. Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving. 

Phil Le Shirley, Public Safety Advisor at RoSPA, said: “Bonfire night can be a magical time for families and communities, and we believe the safest way to enjoy fireworks is by going to an organised display where there will be the appropriate safety protocols in place.

“However, we do recognise that not everyone can attend organised displays and may wish to have their own at home. We therefore advise those people to only purchase fireworks from licensed sellers, follow the manufacturers guidelines and dispose of them safely.”

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Councillor Tim Pogson, Chair of the Edinburgh Community Safety and Justice Partnership, wrote in the Evening News about the city’s preparation for Bonfire Night:

With Bonfire Night taking place this Sunday (November 5), whilst the vast majority of our residents will behave and celebrate appropriately, I’m conscious of some of the appalling scenes last year where we saw widespread disorder, with emergency services vehicles and officers being attacked.

In 2022, two officers in Edinburgh were treated in hospital for head injuries after bricks were thrown at their vehicle. In another incident in the Capital, approximately 100 people threw fireworks at members of the public and vehicles. This is unacceptable, and I want to be clear that we will not tolerate any attacks on our emergency services who work hard to keep us all safe.

Last week (October 26), Depute Lord Provost Lezley Marion Cameron attended the launch of Crimestoppers Scotland’s campaign targeting violence against emergency services. Communities which experienced an increase in firework attacks will be equipped with leaflets, posters, and banners to raise awareness of the law around fireworks misuse and help gather information about who is responsible.

Since last year’s incidents, Police Scotland in Edinburgh have worked proactively to identify those involved which has resulted in 29 people being charged with 59 offences. This year Police Scotland have been clear that there’ll be a zero-tolerance approach towards violence and threatening behaviour.

It’s important to highlight the partnership work that has been ongoing for many months to prepare the city for what is the busiest night of the year for our emergency services. Teams from across the Council have been working closely with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, Scottish Ambulance Service, and other key partners in the buildup to Bonfire Night.

From engagement with schools, youth services, and community organisations on the dangers of fireworks, to proactive social media campaigns, and increased patrols from waste services to collect items that could potentially be set alight to name a few, we’re committed to making sure Edinburgh is properly prepared.

I’d like to make special mention of our work with Lothian Association of Youth Clubs as well as our Housing Services and partner Registered Social Landlords. This work will continue up to, including and beyond Bonfire Night where we review this year’s outcomes and begin preparations anew.

We’re committed to working with our partners and local communities to make sure everyone stays safe this Bonfire Night.

I would urge everyone in the city to only attend organised displays and look out for one another. Further safety information and guidance is available on SFRS’s website.   

You can report information related to Bonfire Night anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800555111.

Please also contact Trading Standards on trading.standards@edinburgh.gov.uk or 0131 608 1100 if you have any information on the illegal sale of fireworks. 

RoSPA: Have fun but stay safe this Bonfire Night

Fireworks are fun when enjoyed safely – that’s the message from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), as the nation prepares for bonfire night celebrations. 

RoSPA says that attending an organised display is the safest option, but with some people unable to get out and about and some local councils cancelling firework displays, there could be an uptick in people celebrating at home. And with every bonfire night witnessing serious injury cases, RoSPA recommends anyone hosting a display at home to read its firework safety advice.

Anyone planning on celebrating Bonfire Night should know:

  • It is illegal to set off fireworks in public places, including streets and parks.
  • It is illegal to buy, attempt to buy, give or in any way make a firework available to someone under the age of 18.
  • It is illegal to set fireworks off before 6pm and after 11pm. This extends to midnight on 5th November and 1am on Hogmanay, Chinese New Year and Diwali.
  • It’s safer to celebrate at an organised event if there’s one in your area, but if you’re planning a private display at home, make sure you know how to keep you and your loved ones safe.
  • Keep a safe distance.
  • Follow the Firework Code and read instructions before use.
  • Not all fireworks are suitable for private use, it depends on the size of your garden – so do your research before purchasing.

RoSPA’s 10 Point Firework Code: 

  1. Plan your firework display to make it safe and enjoyable, and check the time you can legally set off fireworks 
  2. In England, Scotland and Wales only buy fireworks which carry UKCA or CE marks. In the case of Northern Ireland look for the UKNI symbol along with the UKCA or CE mark. Keep your fireworks in a closed box, and use them one at a time 
  3. Read and follow the instructions on each firework using a torch if necessary 
  4. Light the firework at arm’s length with a taper and stand well back 
  5. Keep naked flames, including cigarettes, away from fireworks 
  6. Never return to a firework once it has been lit 
  7. Don’t put fireworks in pockets and never throw them 
  8. Direct any rocket fireworks well away from spectators 
  9. Never use paraffin or petrol on a bonfire 
  10. Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving. 

Phil Le Shirley, Public Safety Advisor at RoSPA, said: “Bonfire night can be a magical time for families and communities, and we believe the safest way to enjoy fireworks is by going to an organised display where there will be the appropriate safety protocols in place.

“However, we do recognise that not everyone can attend organised displays and may wish to have their own at home. We therefore advise those people to only purchase fireworks from licensed sellers, follow the manufacturers guidelines and dispose of them safely.

“It’s also important to remember that sparklers are classed as fireworks and therefore are illegal to be sold to anyone under the age of 18, and sparklers should not be given to children under the age of five.”