Remember, remember . . . the impact of fireworks

With Bonfire Night approaching rapidly, people are being urged to celebrate at an organised display, rather than using fireworks at home.

Alongside the fun and enjoyment, the evening can bring significant safety risks and have a damaging impact on others.

While fireworks are spectacular, they can raise background noise levels by several dozen decibels, affecting the wellbeing of those with noise sensitivity, including autistic people.

The loud bangs, lights and strong smells of fireworks can be challenging for armed forces veterans, and pet owners know only too well the distress it can cause to animals.

More often than not, it is children rather than adults who are injured by fireworks, with more than 350 preschool children in the UK treated in hospital over the past five years.

Assistant Chief Officer Ross Haggart, Scottish Fire and

Rescue Service’s director of prevention and protection, said: ‘While we want people to enjoy and celebrate Bonfire Night, we’d encourage everyone to leave the fireworks to the experts and find an organised display nearby.

‘If you’re not attending a public display, it’s imperative that you follow the fireworks code.

‘The fifth of November is our busiest night of the year by up to four times. By attending an official display, you can help ensure our resources aren’t delayed for someone who really needs our assistance.’

Enjoy fireworks safely at an organised public display – visit Firescotland.gov.uk

To report the misuse of fireworks anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.