Scottish firefighters have urged people not to host their own private firework displays on Bonfire Night this year.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is advising Scots to attend official organised displays instead on or around the November 5.
But the fire service is preparing for a number of private displays to still go ahead after a string of major organised events were cancelled due to Covid concerns and the COP26 climate change summit in Glasgow.
Officials say that there were 12 reported attacks on firefighters during Bonfire Night last year. The fire service also responded to 1,100 calls during an eight hour period that evening in 2020.
Scots have been urged to act sensibly amid concerns that the number of private events this year could soar.
Alasdair Perry, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer at SFRs, 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 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. 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.”
Last year, Nicola Sturgeon hit out at the anti-social behaviour that took place over Bonfire Night last year.
The First Minister's comments came after an illegal fireworks celebrations in Greenock descended into violence.
Around 200 people were in attendance when fire crews were attacked by members of the public, who were throwing stones and other debris.
Ahead of this year’s Bonfire Night, minister for community safety Ash Denham said: “The Scottish Government’s ambition is for all of Scotland’s communities to be safe places for everyone to live, work and enjoy. We all have a part to play in making that vision a reality.
“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 5th November. This is an important step forward in tackling the misuse of fireworks and I encourage anyone who witnesses or has information about criminality relating to fireworks to report it, so that action can be taken to prevent further harm to our communities.”
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