This Friday, the night skies will light up as Bonfire Night gets underway with bursts of colour and the sounds of cracks and booms.
But with all that good fun comes with the potential for mishaps and the danger that is all part of lighting fireworks.
Breaking the law comes with major consequences as people found to sell or use fireworks illegally can be fined an unlimited amount and imprisoned for up to six months. You could also get fined £90 on the spot.
Police Scotland are responsible for enforcing regulations in relation to the use of fireworks.
New measures passed by the Scottish Government in June titled 'The Fireworks (Scotland) Miscellaneous Amendments Regulations 2021' cracked down on fireworks use.
The laws regulate when fireworks can be used, when they can be purchased and in what quantities.
How to report fireworks misuse
The charity CrimeStoppers runs an annual campaign to tackle firework misuse across Scotland and highlight the new regulations in place.
It is supported by Scottish Government's Building Safer Communities group.
Under the CrimeStoppers campaign, people can anonymously call 0800 555 111 to report fireworks misuse.
Concerned Scots can also report fireworks misuse or deliberate fire to Police Scotland by calling 101. In an emergency, always call 999.
In addition, the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) advises: "If it feels wrong or dangerous, walk away. Know what to do if someone gets hurt or you see something that worries you."
New fireworks laws in Scotland
The Fireworks (Scotland) Miscellaneous Amendments Regulations 2021
- restrict the times of day fireworks can be used by the general public to between 6pm and 11pm (subject to exempt dates detailed below)
- restrict the times of day fireworks can be supplied to the general public to during the daytime hours of 7am and 6pm, alongside existing requirements on retailers around sale and storage licences
- limit the quantity of fireworks that can be supplied to the general public to 5kg at any one time
