Fireworks warning as public shows cancelled
A new campaign has warned about the dangers of private firework displays this year amid the cancellation of many public firework displays due to Covid-19.
In a joint message, the Scottish government, Police Scotland, S cottish Fire and Rescue Service, NHS Scotland, and the Scottish SPCA have warned against private firework displays.
The campaign, called #Fire work Safety, aims to educate young people about the dangers of fireworks and bonfires and how to keep themselves safe.
The ambassador for the campaign is Ben Mccabe, who was seriously injured by a firework when he was just four years old.
Ben's mother Amy Mccabe was working at the hospital that he was rushed to.
Mrs McCabe reflected on the horrific night in November 2011, saying: “I can' t even explain what goes through your head.
“Ben was at a private fireworks display just outside our house when a firework went off course and went inside his shirt and caught fire.
“He was rushed straight to the hospital where I was working. Seeing him like that is something I will never forget.”
Scottish SPCA head of education, policy and research G illy M end es Ferreira said the agencies came together due to the prediction there will be an increase in private displays this year.
Ms Mendes Ferreira said: “It's looking likely that coronavirus restrictions will force the cancellation of many organised events. We have joined forces to ask that people be safe, be kind and be smart around fireworks and bonfires.”