Appeal for Bonfire safety sense

Illegal bonfires and do-it-yourself fireworks displays can also go wrong in an instant and SFRS is clear everyone has a role to play in protecting their community.

Assistant Chief Officer Lewis Ramsay, the SFRS Director of Prevention and Protection, said: “We want everyone who celebrates Bonfire Night to have a great time without inviting trauma and tragedy.

“The best thing people can do to keep themselves, their families and others safe is to attend official and organised events, which are also far more spectacular than any do-it-yourself fireworks display or bonfire.

“Choosing to attend only official events helps to protect the community by ensuring resources aren’t tied-up at needless incidents when they could be needed at a real emergency.”

SFRS crews can be four times busier on November 5 than any other night of the year and sees a 40 per cent increase in emergency calls throughout the Bonfire period.

While the service always has the resources needed to respond to emergencies, firefighters could be sent greater distances if nearby crews are dealing with bonfires.

SFRS has produced guidance and safety tips about Bonfire Night, available online at www.firescotland.gov.uk

The advice includes information about bonfire and fireworks safety, with a downloadable safety leaflet.