🎆 Stay Safe This Bonfire Night

Dear {FIRST_NAME},

As 5 November approaches, many look forward to Bonfire Night. While fireworks can be a source of fun and celebration, it is important to remember that they can also pose serious risks if not used responsibly and can cause distress to people and animals alike.

To help raise awareness, the Scottish Government, in partnership with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has launched a Firework Safety Campaign to highlight the dangers associated with fireworks misuse. The campaign also aims to raise awareness of the rules on using fireworks to help lessen the negative impact they can have, sharing fireworks safety guidance and asking everyone to be considerate of each other this Bonfire Night.

Let’s work together to ensure Bonfire Night is safe, respectful, and enjoyable for all members of our communities.

From the Neighbourhood Watch Scotland Team

Please find below information and resources from the Firework Safety Campaign.

Remember, remember… the impact of fireworks

While fireworks can be great fun, they can be dangerous if not used properly. During the bonfire season, most firework injuries treated at emergency departments happen at informal private displays. Over half of those requiring treatment are children. The most common injuries as a result of fireworks are to the wrist, hand, head, face and neck. 

David McGill, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Scotland’s National Burn Centre said: 

“Unfortunately, we see a rise in burn injuries around Bonfire Night, in both adults and children. We carry out an annual audit of firework injuries across Scotland, and in 2024 there were 46 injuries recorded over the four-week period around Guy Fawkes night . 

“The majority of these occurred at home or private properties. Injuries reported ranged from minor, such as burns to the fingers, to severe including loss of fingers and complex eye injuries with loss of vision. 

“Children are frequently burned with sparklers. There’s a misunderstanding of how hot they can get. They can cause severe burns to fingers and hands, or catch clothing alight. Sparklers should never be given to children under the age of five. 

“Great care should be taken around fireworks, especially when children are near. To minimise the risks to you and your family, a publicly arranged event would be by far the safest way to view fireworks.”

This Bonfire Night make sure you know the law and best practice around the use of fireworks, which are in place to reduce incidents and injury:

Enjoy fireworks safely. For more advice visit firescotland.gov.uk

To report the misuse of fireworks anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.