Fireworks and bonfires can be very distressing and dangerous for many people and animals across the country. This November will be the first time in two years that there have been no restrictions on large gatherings during bonfire night so we are asking the public to #BeSafeBeKindBeSmart around fireworks.
We have once again taken a multi-agency approach to work in partnership to deliver one clear message to everyone in Scotland. Please consider
#FireworkSafety.
It is illegal for the general public to set fireworks off before 6pm and after 11pm in the evening. This extends to midnight on 5 November and 1am on New Year's Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali.
Young people are more likely to be the victim of an accident or injured in the use of fireworks and around bonfires. If you responsible for the wellbeing of a young person in Scotland, please support #FireworkSafety and help us inform young people of the dangers and keep them safe from harm.
We need young people and their families to
Be Safe
Follow the fireworks code here.
You can enjoy fireworks safely by only attending organised public displays.
Be Kind
Be mindful of the negative effect firework misuse can have on those around you, your neighbours, your community, animals in the area and the environment.
Find advice specific to animals here.
Respect and support those who are there to help you like the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Police Scotland and the NHS.
Be Smart
If it feels wrong or dangerous, walk away.
Know what to do if someone gets hurt or you see something that worries you.
You can report fireworks misuse or deliberate fire raising to Police Scotland by calling 101 or if you’re 11+ you can #BeFearless in speaking up about WHO is responsible for crime 100% anonymously at Fearless.org.
In an emergency ALWAYS dial 999.
Not following our #FireworkSafety guidance could end in tragic consequences.
Meet Ben who was seriously injured by a firework when just four years old. Ben’s story highlights the dangers for everyone and how important it is to #BeSafeBeKindBeSmart
Find the hazards and dangers of fireworks and bonfires in our interactive game and complete the quiz to test your knowledge. Due to the nature of the content, please ensure young people only use the materials relevant to their age group.
Our school competition poster winners for 2023
Winner - Amelie, P6 from Gullane Primary School
Runner-up - Megan, P6/7b Rothesay Joint Campus
Runner-up - Becca and Millie New Deer Primary School, Aberdeenshire
Secondary School winner Rebecca, Clydebank High School
Now that you've learned about #FireworkSafety don't forget to spread the word on social media and with your family and friends.
Click the image below to download our flyer you can use to help everyone Be Safe, Be Kind and Be Smart.
