Fears on private displays

Residents are being urged to follow advice on buying and using fireworks amid an expected rise in private displays this year.

With no official displays in the region, due to COVID- 19 restrictions and social distancing measures, even more people are expected to host their own private events.

As a result, Scotland’s national consumer advice service, consumeradvice. scot, is providing information to anyone on the rules regarding how fireworks can be sold, who is able to purchase them, and the times that fireworks can legally be set off.

It comes as a new campaign has warned about the dangers of private firework displays in a joint operational message from the Scottish Government, Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, NHS Scotland, and the Scottish SPCA.

The campaign, called # FireworkSafety, aims to educate young people about the dangers of fireworks and bonfires and how to keep themselves safe.

Marjorie Gibson, head of operations with Scotland’s national consumer advice service, consumeradvice. scot, said: “There is expected to be a large increase in private firework displays this year, and the key advice is to stay safe and act responsibly.

“When buying fireworks, the law is clear- it is illegal to sell adult fireworks to children or for anyone under 18 to possess adult fireworks.

“This can be a stressful time for pets, and we would advise owners to keep animals in the quietest part of the property and act as calmly as possible if fireworks are going off outside.

“If you are setting off fireworks at home, be aware of surroundings, be conscious of your neighbours and pets, never leave children unsupervised, and remember that alcohol and fireworks don’t mix.

“Anyone with any consumer- related queries about fireworks can contact the national consumer advice service, consumeradvice. scot, for free, impartial and practical advice.”