Stay safe on bonfire night

The period leading up to November 5 is one of the busiest of the year for Scottish Fire and Rescue Service crews, with the number of emergency calls typically increasing by as much as 40 per cent.

Area Manager Paul Tanzilli has urged residents to recognise the risks and help firefighters prevent serious incidents.

He said: “Everyone has a role to play in protecting themselves, their families and their communities at what is always a busy time of year for the fire service.

“Many people will celebrate bonfire night and we want them to have a great time, but without risking the lifelong injuries and trauma that can follow from the improper use of fireworks or building careless bonfires.

“Organised fireworks displays or bonfires are more spectacular than DIY displays or unofficial events but, even more importantly, they are also far safer for you, your family and your friends.

“Fireworks are obviously dangerous and we’ve seen too many incidents where someone has suffered horrific injuries as a result of things going wrong.

“The fact is careless and poorly built bonfires threaten to set fire to neighbouring properties and they also release toxic fumes that cause serious problems for people who have breathing conditions.”

East Renfrewshire residents have plenty of choice for safe and spectacular displays around Bonfire Night.

Glasgow Green will again play host to one of Scotland’s biggest displays, with a funfair open from 5:30pm before the fireworks begin at 7:30pm.

East Renfrewshire community safety convener councillor Montague said: “We want everyone to enjoy bonfire night but we urge people to stay safe by following the firework code and by attending displays that are well-organised.”

Information about bonfire and fireworks safety is available from SFRS by visiting the website at www.firescotland.gov.uk/your-safety/bonfire-night.aspx.

Area Manager Tanzilli added: “It’s against the law for fireworks to be sold to children and young people, so anyone who is aware of this happening should report it to Police Scotland or Trading Standards.

“We would also encourage the public to report unsafe or dangerous bonfires or bonfire materials and any suspicion of deliberate fire setting.”

The public are urged to pass on any information about who may be responsible for fire setting to Police Scotland using the 101 non-emergency number or, alternatively, by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.