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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Paul T Smith

Falkirk firefighters 'well equipped and ready' for busiest night of year

Firefighters in the Falkirk area say they are "well equipped and ready" for Bonfire Night tonight - but have issued a warning.

Crews are expecting a busy Guy Fawkes Night as always and are appealing to the public to be safe if they are setting off fireworks.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service ’s Area Commander for Falkirk and West Lothian, also says that attacks on his teams will not be tolerated.

Speaking to Falkirk Live, David Sharp, said: "The Service is well resourced and prepared for Bonfire Night - which this year coincides with COP26 taking place in Glasgow - and we have robust measures in place to ensure we can continue to respond to emergencies.

"We are anticipating a spike in emergency calls and operational demand as we always do on what is traditionally our busiest night of the year, but our tried and tested procedures will ensure we can respond where we are needed the most.

"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.

And anyone who is considering having a private event to think again.

Mr Sharp added: "Those who choose to do so should familiarise themselves with the fireworks code and fire safety guidance. Do not take risks because the consequences can be devastating.

"On Bonfire Night our staff will be out on patrol with police and local authority partners to engage with communities and pass on advice to anyone who is hosting a bonfire.

"These patrols will also be tasked with removing any dangerous materials which may be used as part of a bonfire to prevent potential injuries or damage to property. Anyone who wishes to report a bonfire should call your local authority or your local fire station.

"Our communities can help us during this busy period by considering the impact of their actions on others and emergency services, as it is absolutely vital that we preserve the capacity to respond to other emergencies."

The Fireworks Code can be accessed here https://www.firescotland.gov.uk/media/1144243/sfrs_bonfires_leaflet_v35.pdf

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