Bang to rights... set off fireworks and face prison
Flouting new ban could get you 6 months
SCOTS are to be banned from using fireworks except to celebrate festivals and holidays.
Proposed legislation would make it a criminal offence to buy, possess or use fireworks without a licence, with offenders facing fines and up to six months in prison.
The Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill would limit the use of the explosives to certain times of the year, including Hogmanay, Guy Fawkes Night, Diwali, Vaisakhi and Chinese New Year.
More than 16,000 people responded to a Government consultation about a new offence.
Plans for a clampdown follow a number of high-profile accidents involving pyrotechnics.
In 2018, schoolboy Carson Boyd had two fingers blown off when a firework exploded in his face. The youngster had a 12-hour operation to save his hand and suffered serious injuries to his face and eyes.
Ben McCabe was four when he was seriously hurt after a firework exploded on his chest at a display in Lanarkshire. Now 13, Ben suffered third degree burns to his chest, neck, arm and ear.
The Bill also gives local councils the power to impose ‘firework control zones’ where further curbs are in place, though professional displays may be allowed.
Community safety minister Ash Regan said: ‘This Bill will ensure appropriate action is taken over the sale and use of fireworks as well as reducing the misuse of pyrotechnic devices such as flares.
‘We have undertaken a significant programme of engagement and evidence-gathering which has demonstrated strong public support for tougher action.
‘We have already moved quickly to introduce regulations restricting the times of day and the volume of fireworks that can be supplied to the public – as well as the times fireworks can be set off.
‘This Bill demonstrates our absolute commitment to further improve safety for communities across Scotland.’
Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service have backed the Bill’s publication.
Police Scotland Chief Superintendent Linda Jones said: ‘Pyrotechnics in the wrong hands can be lethal. They are inherently dangerous and their ongoing misuse is a matter of serious concern to Police Scotland.
‘This is not only due to the risks faced by those who may discharge them, but to those around them.
‘There is no safe way to operate pyrotechnics unless you are properly trained – leave it to the experts at organised events.’