Tag: Safety

New government report on Halloween costumes spells concern, say RoSPA

Tests on children’s Halloween costumes revealed that over 80% of costumes for under-sevens failed basic safety tests, including those for flammability and strangulation risks. RoSPA advises parents to take one simple but crucial step this Halloween: choose costumes from trusted sources that meet UK safety standards.

As Halloween approaches, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is urging families to take action following alarming news from the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS).

New Findings on Costume Safety

Tests conducted by  OPSS on 128 costumes purchased from various online marketplaces found that more than 80% failed safety tests. Among these, 28 costumes did not meet flammability standards, and 59 were found to have dangerous cords or drawstrings that posed a strangulation hazard. Many costumes also lacked appropriate labelling, with 98 out of 128 failing to provide essential safety information.

Adrian Simpson, Head of Policy and Press for RoSPA said: “These results are deeply concerning. Parents and those responsible for children need to be extra cautious this Halloween. Always purchase costumes from reputable retailers and check for the UKCA or CE mark to ensure they comply with UK safety regulations.

“This is important as it shows that the product has been tested to meet UK safety standards, and indicates that the costume has passed essential safety tests, including those for flammability.

“With the recent findings from the OPSS, it’s clearer than ever that safety needs to come first. If you’re buying a Halloween costume for your child, checking for that the product meets labelling requirements should be a top priority. This simple check can prevent accidents and ensure a safer Halloween for everyone.”

ADDITIONAL SAFETY TIPS FOR HALLOWEEN

In addition to choosing costumes that meet flammability and safety standards, RoSPA advises families to follow these important guidelines:

  • Avoid open flames: Keep children away from lit candles, fireplaces, and any other open flames.
  • Supervise children: An adult should always be present to supervise children, especially near fire hazards.
  • Make costumes visible: Add reflective strips to costumes or provide children with torches to ensure they can be seen in the dark while trick-or-treating.
  • Stay cautious with homemade costumes: RoSPA advises against homemade costumes, as they are unlikely to meet the same fire safety standards as store-bought ones that comply with UK regulations.
  • Check for product recalls: The OPSS regularly updates its website with information on recalled products, including Halloween costumes. If you’re unsure about a costume’s safety, check online before using it.

Stay safe this fireworks season

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has produced safety tips for this fireworks season on how to use fireworks responsibly and considerately to help protect both people and animals:

You must only buy from licensed sellers

Make sure you buy fireworks from licensed or registered in-store and online retailers. Do not buy fireworks from unknown retailers on social media sites. Remember it is illegal for under 18s to buy fireworks.

Choose traditional dates and keep to the curfew

People are more likely to plan to protect pets and other animals if fireworks are let off on traditional dates. The firework curfew is midnight on Fireworks Night, 1am on Diwali, New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year, and 11pm the rest of the year. Firework timings may differ in Scotland. Search ‘fireworks’ on gov.scot for more advice.

Follow the instructions carefully

Before letting off fireworks, read all the safety instructions on the box, so you know important things like how far away people need to stand. If you do not understand the instructions and warnings, do not use the firework. Once any debris has cooled down, tidy it up and soak it in water overnight. Then put it in a rubbish bag and in the bin.

Check what fireworks you can use at home

Category F1, F2 and F3 fireworks are on sale to the public depending on the safety distance required. Check the labelling to ensure you have enough space to safely use a firework before you buy it.

Always follow the Firework Code. Search ‘fireworks’ on GOV.UK for more advice.

Think of local animals before setting off fireworks

If you plan to let off any fireworks, let your neighbours know in advance so they can plan for pets that might be affected.

If you live close to horses, let their owners know well in advance that you are letting fireworks off. Site your fireworks well away from them and aim them in the opposite direction. It is important to be considerate to horse owners as they cannot easily move horses away from fireworks.

Notify nearby farms and stables if you are planning to use fireworks. Do not let off fireworks if they will disturb wildlife habitats, or roosting bats and birds.

Keep your pet safe

On nights where fireworks are being let off, keep dogs and cats inside with somewhere to hide and give small outdoor pets extra bedding and nesting material to burrow in.

fireworks-safety-campaign-2024-poster-webDownload

National swimming framework spotlighted in the capital

A NEW framework that aims to revolutionise water safety in schools has been celebrated in Edinburgh.

Scottish Swimming, in partnership with Scottish Water, hosted a landmark event yesterday at Edinburgh’s Royal Commonwealth Pool to celebrate The National Primary School Swimming Framework.

The celebration introduced Scotland’s most decorated Olympian Duncan Scott MBE and double Paralympian Toni Shaw as ambassadors for the Framework and highlighted the critical importance of swimming education in primary schools across Scotland.

The National Primary School Swimming Framework aims to ensure pupils across Scotland, particularly at Primary 4/Primary 5 level, learn basic water safety and drowning prevention skills to be safer and more confident in, on, and around water.

Olympic champion Duncan Scott MBE shared: “Swimming isn’t just a sport; it’s a life skill that can help save lives. I’m honoured to be part of this initiative that aims to make swimming accessible to every child in Scotland.

“The fact that over 9,200 pupils have already benefited from the pilot phases is encouraging, but it’s crucial that we continue to bridge the gaps and ensure equal opportunities for all our young people.”

During the event, attendees heard from Scottish Swimming, Scottish Water, sportscotland, Duncan and Toni, as well as seeing a lesson in progress with children from Niddrie Mill and Castleview primary schools.

Paralympian Toni Shaw added: “Swimming has transformed my life, and I believe every child should have the chance to experience its benefits.

“This framework is a step in the right direction, but we need to ensure it reaches every corner of Scotland. Inclusive swimming education is not just about creating champions, it’s about empowering all children with confidence and safety in the water.”

The Framework, now available for schools across the nation, has already made significant strides. More than 9,200 pupils have participated in two phases of pilots carried out across nine local authorities in Scotland.

Craig Burn, Director of Sport at sportscotland said: “The National Primary School Swimming Framework represents a significant step forward in our efforts to improve water safety and swimming education across Scotland.

“By partnering with Scottish Swimming and other key stakeholders, we’re creating a comprehensive approach that will help ensure every child has the opportunity to learn essential water safety skills. We’re excited to see the positive impact this will have on young lives, potentially reducing drowning incidents.”

Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “Scottish Water is proud to support this new framework. Water safety is paramount – with Scotland’s natural landscape which has approximately 30,000 inland waters and 6,000 miles of coastline, coupled with worryingly high drowning statistics.

“This framework will be key to creating ‘Generation Swim’ and ensuring more children across the country get the basic – but vital – water safety knowledge and skills to help keep them safer in, on and around water.”

The National Primary School Swimming Framework offers flexible delivery models, allowing schools to adopt different approaches based on their circumstances, such as universal or targeted programmes for non-swimmers.

It focuses on water safety education, with the Water Safety Code integrated throughout, aligning with Water Safety Scotland’s drowning prevention initiatives.

The framework’s development has been supported by the Scottish Government through sportscotland, with additional credibility added by the inclusion of Education Scotland and Water Safety Scotland.

To learn more about the National Primary School Swimming Framework or to support its implementation, visit:  

https://www.scottishswimming.com/learn-to-swim/school-swimming-framework

Vigilance urged as Edinburgh records decline in fire incidents

Data from the Scottish Government reveals a significant decline in fire incidents at non-domestic buildings in Edinburgh. Between the financial years of 2018/2019 and 2022/2023, fire and rescue services attended 991 incidents, representing a 25% decrease from the previous five years.

The decline underscores the effectiveness of work that the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service does with local organisations to raise awareness about fire safety practices. Coupled with the rules set out in the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 and Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006, which mandates comprehensive fire risk assessments for all businesses, this demonstrates the impact of proactive measures.

Ansvar, an expert provider of insurance for the charity, care, not-for-profit, and faith sectors, is emphasising the importance of continued vigilance.

Adam Tier, Head of Underwriting at Ansvar, commented: “The decrease in fire incidents in Edinburgh is extremely positive news and highlights the impact that greater awareness and regulation reforms can have, particularly for protecting smaller businesses and organisations in the non-profit sectors, where operational continuity is paramount.

“Unlike large commercial companies, who may operate across multiple locations or have an ability to utilise hybrid working, many charities and not-for-profit groups cannot continue to function if their premises are rendered unusable due to fire.

“Organisations can take obvious steps like ensuring all areas are equipped with fire alarms and smoke detectors, conducting regular risk assessments, and providing fire safety training to staff and volunteers.

“However, there are also less obvious measures that can significantly enhance preparedness and resilience against fire incidents. We are encouraging organisations to incorporate these into their fire safety plans for comprehensive protection.”

Ansvar has outlined five essential tips to further reduce fire incidents:

  1. Storage and housekeeping: Poor storage practices, such as keeping flammable materials near heat sources, can significantly increase fire risk. Regular housekeeping to keep areas tidy and free of obstructions is crucial. If the organisation has a kitchen facility, ensure proper ventilation, regular cleaning of grease traps and extractor fans, and staff training on safe cooking procedures.
  2. Be arson aware: Arson can be one of the biggest causes of fire in non-domestic buildings. Ensure a building is secure when empty to deter intruders. Ansvar has put together an arson checklist, which is available to download from its website – https://www.ansvar.co.uk/home/risk-management-guides-arson/.
  3. Evacuation plan accessibility: Consider those with disabilities during fire drills and that evacuation plans account for different needs. This might involve designated evacuation assistants or specific procedures.
  4. Secure specialist insurance cover: Organisations should have comprehensive insurance cover specifically designed for their sector. Specialist insurance policies can provide tailored protection and support, helping to mitigate the financial and operational impact of fire-related incidents.
  5. Maintain safety of electrical items: Regularly inspect and maintain all electrical equipment, including portable appliances, and wiring. Use qualified electricians for any repairs or installations and avoid overloading electrical sockets. Proper care and maintenance of electrical items can significantly reduce the risk of fire. 

Adam Tier added: “While preventative measures are crucial, specialist insurance tailored to the unique needs of the not-for-profit sector can provide essential protection in the event of a fire. This helps ensure organisations can recover quickly and continue their important work within the community.”

Ansvar is part of the Benefact Group, a charity-owned specialist financial services organisation. The Benefact Group is the UK’s third-largest corporate donor, underscoring Ansvar’s dedication to supporting the wider charitable community.

[1] https://statistics.gov.scot/data/fire—type-of-incident

Water Beads Safety Warning

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has recently issued a Safety Alert, highlighting the potential risks that water beads pose to children and vulnerable adults. RoSPA (The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) fully supports this important alert and encourages everyone to take necessary precautions when using or handling water beads.

Water beads, often marketed as jelly balls, sensory beads, or water crystals, are small beads that can expand up to 400 times their original size when exposed to liquid.

Though popular for use in toys, decorations, and sensory play, they can present serious dangers, particularly for young children under 5 and vulnerable individuals, such as those with special educational needs or disabilities.

The Risks of Water Beads

The main concern with water beads is their ability to expand when swallowed. Once inside the body, they can block the gastrointestinal tract, leading to severe complications that may require surgical intervention. The risk of choking is also significant, as small children often explore by putting objects in their mouths. Reports have linked water beads to injuries in the UK, and there have even been fatal cases overseas.

Another alarming aspect of water beads is their difficulty to detect if ingested. They are not visible on X-rays, meaning early symptoms may go unnoticed. It is crucial to be aware of signs of ingestion or choking and to seek immediate medical attention if a bead is swallowed. Symptoms can include vomiting, stomach pain, or changes in behaviour, which may appear hours or even days later.

Preventative Measures

RoSPA urges parents, caregivers, educators, and businesses to take the following steps to minimise the risks posed by water beads:

  1. Keep water beads away from young children: For children under 5, water beads should be stored out of sight and reach to prevent accidental ingestion or choking.
  2. Avoid using water beads in homes or settings with young children: Caregivers should avoid having water beads in environments where young children are present, even if they are intended for older children or adults. This helps reduce the likelihood of accidents, as younger children are prone to putting objects in their mouths.
  3. Supervise closely when using water beads: If water beads are used by older children or vulnerable individuals, they should be supervised closely. Ensure that no beads have been left behind after play or use, and limit the number of beads available at any one time.
  4. Know the signs of ingestion or choking: Be on the lookout for symptoms such as stomach pain, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. Choking signs may include grasping the neck, a change in skin colour, or distress. If you suspect ingestion, seek medical help immediately, and if possible, bring a sample of the product for identification.

Stay Informed for Safety

RoSPA encourages all caregivers, educators, and businesses to remain alert to the risks of water beads and to take action where needed. The OPSS has already taken steps to remove unsafe products from the market, but everyone plays a role in ensuring these risks are minimised in homes, schools, and beyond.

RoSPA encourages all caregivers, educators, and businesses to remain alert to the risks of water beads and to take action where needed. The OPSS has already taken steps to remove unsafe products from the market, but everyone plays a role in ensuring these risks are minimised in homes, schools, and beyond.

Phil Le Shirley, Product Safety Advisor at RoSPA, emphasises the importance of awareness: “Water beads may seem harmless, but they pose a real and often hidden danger to young children and vulnerable adults.

“We strongly urge parents and caregivers to follow the OPSS guidance and take immediate action to prevent unnecessary injuries or worse.”

For more information and to read the full OPSS Safety Alert, visit the official GOV.UK website.


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Police issue crime and safety advice to students during Freshers Weeks

Police Scotland is engaging with students across the country to promote a range of crime prevention and personal safety advice during Freshers Weeks.

To minimise the risk of students being the victim of crime, or becoming involved in criminal activity, police will be attending various Freshers events taking place in the coming weeks to provide useful information and guidance on how to keep themselves and their belongings safe wherever they go.

Policing teams throughout Scotland will also be promoting student safety advice on their social media channels over the next month.

Chief Inspector Michelle Grant from Police Scotland’s Policing Together Division said: “Students make up a large part of populations in towns and cities across the country and make a positive contribution to our society. It is important they feel safe and supported during their studies.

“We have been engaging with numerous further and higher education establishments in the run-up to freshers weeks beginning and we’re grateful to have been given the opportunity to speak with students.

“Over the coming weeks, we will be offering advice on how to stay safe while on nights out, protecting your accommodation and personal belongings and staying safe online.

“We’ll also be discussing how to identify and report domestic abuse, as, for many, the next few years could be when they enter into relationships for the first time in their lives.

“Our advice on staying safe is relevant, whether you’re in your first or last year of your studies so please consider this when you are at home, in college or university, or out enjoying the night-time economy.”

All of Police Scotland’s crime prevention and personal safety advice can be found by visiting www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information.

Teenagers complete life skills and youth violence reduction pilot scheme

A pilot scheme aimed at giving young people in the East End of Glasgow life skills and reducing youth violence in the area has been hailed a success by those taking part.

Teenagers, aged between 13 and 16 years have been involved in a ‘10 week Create Your Own PAFS’ (Police, Ambulance, Fire Service) programme since July to build their confidence and develop the skills to make the best possible choices.

The event was co-ordinated by Constable Laura MacDonald who was inspired by a youth programme whilst serving in the fire service prior to joining Police Scotland. She also enlisted the help of colleagues from the Scottish Ambulance Service and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to make it as informative as possible.

Working together, the services developed mock scenarios of real-life emergency situations, such as road traffic collisions, search and rescue, trauma, first aid and the use of defibrillators, and young people were invited to take on the various roles of blue light personnel to learn more about how each service responds.

The young people also completed elements of the three services fitness tests familiarising them with the fitness entry requirements.

Also included in the programme were inputs surrounding valuing diversity and inclusion, drug awareness, road safety, water safety, online safety and group discussions on relevant up to date topics.

Constable MacDonald said: “Our main aim was to break down the barriers between the teenagers and emergency services as often the only contact people have with us is in moments of crisis or when something has gone wrong.

“The pilot scheme was designed as a Tri-Service programme and shows what each service does and encourages the young people to take part in various time critical challenges which helps them understand how important it is to remain calm in a crisis whilst building their communication skills.

“The feedback from the young people taking part and their parents or guardians has been so encouraging and positive. They’ve said they all enjoyed the experience and felt it was successful in testing their social skills in unfamiliar environments. Participants have really had a confidence boost and some have made plans to join other similar volunteer groups.”

Those who took part received a certificate acknowledging their hard work and commitment to the programme and also a further certificate for CPR, which was one of the focal points during the 10-week programme.

Constable MacDonald concluded: “This has been a tremendous experience for me and my emergency service colleagues and I am grateful for the support of management within Police Scotland, Scottish Ambulance Service and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

“I am so proud of everyone who took part and hope to be able to replicate this in the division again in the near future.”

MSP accused of trying to ‘sneak through’ controversial new law to ban purchase of sex in Scotland

UPDATE: DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER

·        Alba MSP has formally proposed new law to bring in Nordic Model, but has failed to seek public and stakeholder views, in line with Scottish Parliament guidance

·        Leading sex worker safety service National Ugly Mugs labels Regan’s consultation a “sham”, as it fails to mention international evidence showing Nordic Model makes sex workers less safe

·        Proposed new law comes after YouGov polling showing Scots oppose Nordic Model, instead favouring more support for sex workers, alongside leading NGOs such as Amnesty International

Ash Regan has been accused of trying to “sneak through” a controversial new law to ban the purchase of sex in Scotland, having formally submitted a proposed new Bill to Parliament, while failing to notify sex worker support groups or seek views from those opposed to the measures.

The Prostitution (Offences and Support) (Scotland) Bill, a Member’s Bill formally proposed to the Scottish Parliament by Regan on June 18, would enact the so-called “Nordic Model” in Scotland – making it a criminal offence to purchase sex – a move that is opposed by the Scottish public as well as a host of leading international NGOs.

The consultation document has been labelled a “sham” by National Ugly Mugs, the UK’s national sex worker safety service, as it fails to include any of the wealth of international evidence showing that banning the purchase of sex only serves to increase violence against sex workers, by making their lives more difficult and dangerous.

An official government review of similar legislation in Northern Ireland – the only nation in the UK to enact the Nordic Model – found that there was “no evidence that the offence of purchasing sexual services has produced a downward pressure on the demand for, or supply of, sexual services”.

It also found that “the legislation has contributed to a climate whereby sex workers feel further marginalised and stigmatised”. Regan’s consultation fails to mention this.

The Scottish Parliament’s official Guidance on Public Bills says that the consultation process on a proposed Member’s Bill should allow the policy “to be tested against, and informed by, stakeholder and public opinion”.

The guidance says that seeking such views “usually proves valuable in refining and developing the policy and in equipping the member for the challenges involved in explaining and defending that policy during the passage of the Bill.”

However, despite previously pledging to share the proposal with the public for feedback, the Alba MSP has not made any move to publicise the consultation – either via her Twitter account, her Nordic Model campaign website, or via the press – before it closes on September 12.

A YouGov poll of 1,088 Scottish adults, carried out for National Ugly Mugs in May this year, showed that Scots firmly oppose the Nordic Model, with 47% saying it should be legal for a person to pay someone to have sex with them, versus 32% who think it should not be legal.

The poll showed that 69% of Scots say the Scottish Government should focus on protecting the health and safety of sex workers, and providing support to people who want to leave the industry, compared to just 14% who support the government passing new laws to prevent people exchanging sexual services for money.

Dr Raven Bowen, chief executive of National Ugly Mugs, said: “Ash Regan is clearly trying to sneak through this controversial proposed Member’s Bill, by slipping out a consultation just before recess, timed to run over the summer break, and then failing to notify affected stakeholders like NUM, presumably in the hope that they wouldn’t notice.

“Her sham consultation fails to acknowledge the wealth of international evidence showing that the Nordic Model only serves to increase violence against sex workers, by eliminating their revenue streams, making them desperate and destitute. The official government review of the Nordic Model in Northern Ireland – the only UK nation to enact this approach – showed it has failed there too.

“The evidence shows that Scots side with charities, researchers and international organisations such as Amnesty International, UN Aids and the World Health Organisation in opposing the Nordic Model.

“The Scottish Parliament must now do what Regan has failed to do, and consider the actual evidence showing that the Nordic Model would be a disaster for Scottish sex workers, before rejecting this proposed new law.”

UPDATE +++ UPDATE +++ UPDATE +++

The deadline for responding to @AshReganALBA‘s consultation on a proposed Prostitution (Offences and Support) (Scotland) Bill has been extended to 30 September.

Learn more and share your views:

https://ow.ly/qiOO50T9Vj8

Calls to protect Edinburgh volunteers as community engagement grows

As new research from The National Lottery Community Fund [1] reveals a growing enthusiasm for volunteering among UK adults, Ansvar Insurance is calling on charities and organisations across Edinburgh to prioritise the safety and management of their volunteer programmes.

The research indicates that half of UK adults (a slight increase on last year) plan to volunteer in 2024, with 14% intending to volunteer for the first time, citing food banks, animal welfare, and charity shops as the most popular initiatives to get involved with.

In Edinburgh specifically (according to the latest data from the Scottish Household Survey [2]), 19% of residents volunteered in 2022.

The benefits of volunteering, such as providing young people with new life skills and reducing loneliness among the elderly, have become increasingly recognised, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.

While a growing number of  volunteers is a positive development for charities, it also presents challenges in managing safety and risk.

Proper risk management is crucial not only for attracting volunteers but also for retaining them and maintaining the organisation’s reputation.

Kelly Barter, Head of Customer Service at Ansvar, an expert provider of insurance for the charity, not-for-profit, care and faith sectors, commented: “Volunteers are the backbone of charitable and community organisations and play a pivotal role in sustaining vital services across Edinburgh.

“However, ensuring their safety and protection is essential. When planning events, the focus is often on activities and fundraising, but the administrative aspects, such as providing adequate supervision, organising appropriate training, completing comprehensive risk assessments, ensuring specialist insurance coverage is in place, and providing a safe environment for volunteers, can sometimes get overlooked.

“Effective risk management protects volunteers and enhances their satisfaction and retention. Volunteers are more likely to stay engaged when they feel safe and valued, leading to a positive and long-lasting experience.”

Ansvar is part of the Benefact Group, the charity-owned specialist financial services organisation. The Benefact Group stands as the UK’s third-largest corporate donor, reinforcing Ansvar’s commitment to supporting the broader charitable community.

[1] https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/insights/2023-24-community-research-index

[2] https://www.gov.scot/publications/scottish-household-survey-2022-key-findings/pages/10/