Fireworks at home a real risk
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service are urging the public to consider the risks of hosting a firework display.
The SFRS is underlining the dangers of the private use of fireworks as some organised displays are being cancelled for the second year due to Covid-19 restrictions.
As revealed yesterday, Paisley’s fireworks extravaganza has been scrapped for the second year in a row.
Council chiefs have said it is “unfeasible” to stage the colourful display next month despite making plans for a Halloween event from October 28 to November 1.
They cited crowd size and ongoing coronavirus safety measures as the reasons behind the cancellation.
Now the Fire Service is issuing a stark reminder that bonfires and the private use of fireworks can cause devastating injuries. They pose a threat to spectators and can also cause distress.
The annual Bonfire Night event in Glasgow has also been cancelled due to it coinciding with the global COP26 environmental conference taking place in the city.
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Alasdair Perry is the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s head of prevention and protection.
He said: “For the second year running Bonfire Night will be significantly different to previous years as some large-scale public events across the country are being cancelled due to Covid-19 restrictions, and in Glasgow due to the COP26 event.
“The service is well resourced and prepared for this annual period of celebrations that includes Halloween, Diwali and Bonfire Night, as well as this year’s COP26, and we have robust measures in place to ensure we can continue to respond to emergencies.
“There is no doubt that we welcome the continuing support of our communities – by following all available safety guidance from ourselves and our partners, they can help reduce the risk of harm wherever possible.
“What we’re asking this year is for the public to consider the risks of hosting a private event involving either fire or fireworks. Every year people are injured by bonfires and fireworks and admitted to hospital – and children are particularly at risk.
“We are therefore strongly encouraging anyone who is considering having a private event to think again.
“Do not take risks because the consequences can be devastating.”
Last year on Bonfire Night, Operations Control received 1,100 calls from members of the public and crews also responded to more than 500 bonfires within an eight-hour period – with 12 recorded attacks on firefighters.
Alasdair Perry added: “We know it’s a very small minority of people who engage in anti-social behaviour, but there’s no question it can impact on our firefighters and operations control colleagues as well as our partners.
“A deliberate fire can also put property, resources and indeed lives at risk so it goes without saying that we will always take a zero-tolerance approach to fire-setting and attacks on our crews.”
The advice has also been backed by the Scottish Government.
Minister for Community Safety Ash Denham said: “Fireworks can be hugely damaging and distressing and that is why it is now illegal for the general public to set off fireworks before 6pm and after 11pm. This is extended to midnight on November 5.”
• Paisley Rugby Club is hosting a fireworks event on Friday, November 5 from 6.30pm. Tickets cost £5 for adults, £3 for under18s and under-5s get free entry. Find information and tickets online at https:// paisleyrugbyclubfireworks. eventbrite.co.uk