Keeping Orkney safe – Bonfire Night

Did you know that most firework injuries treated at emergency departments happen at informal private displays and nearly half of those requiring treatment are children? 

The Council is supporting the Scottish Fire and Rescue and Scottish Government campaign to highlight the dangers associated with fireworks misuse and the laws designed to help keep everyone safe in the run up to, and during, Bonfire Night. 

OIC Trading Standards Service Manager, Gary Foubister, said: “We would encourage everyone to attend an organised event, but for those planning to hold their own fireworks display, you should pay particular attention to the Fireworks Code and ensure that appropriate safe distances are observed while also taking into account weather conditions.  

“Trading Standards Officers are visiting licensed retailers in the run-up to 5 November to ensure they continue to adhere to the law regarding the sale and storage of fireworks.  

“If you are organising a display there is useful practical information on the Health and Safety Executive website www.hse.gov.uk or from The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service at www.firescotland.gov.uk.”  

Community bonfire events are held in Kirkwall, Stromness and various isles and parishes. Keep an eye out on social media for updates. 

The campaign is urging folk to adhere to legislation and best practice when dealing with fireworks, which are potentially very dangerous. 

Orkney’s Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Station Commander, Danny Gall, said: “For many Bonfire Night is a time to celebrate, but for others it can be an unpleasant experience. Please consider your neighbours and animals when using fireworks. Fireworks can be overwhelming for people with a sensory impairment such as those with neurological differences such as autism. Animals can also find fireworks particularly distressing.  

“Our advice is always to attend an organised public firework display. It's safer and better for the environment.  We strongly encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with our Firework Code and Fire Safety Guidance. By following the code, you can drive down the risk of displays ending in injury.  

“Sadly, it is often children who are injured by fireworks. Ensure only adults handle fireworks and children watch from a safe distance.” 

Inspector David Hall at Kirkwall Police Station said: “Bonfire Night can be one of the busiest nights for policing teams and officers, facing a number of challenges while dealing with an increase in callouts and doing our duties to keep communities and other blue-light colleagues safe. 

“It’s a criminal offence to purchase fireworks for anyone under 18 for which you can face a £5,000 fine, six months in prison, or both. Please don’t risk it. There are also controls over when fireworks can be set off.” 

Insp Hall added that there are stiffer sentences for anyone who attacks emergency service workers with fireworks. 

“Please help us keep the Bonfire Night period safe for everyone by behaving responsibly when purchasing and using fireworks and having frank conversations with young people in your care about the risks and consequences of committing fireworks-related offences.” 

The campaign is reminding people: 

Follow the Firework Code. 

It is illegal to use fireworks before 6pm or after 11pm. 

It is illegal to buy or give fireworks to anyone under the age of 18. 

It is illegal to use fireworks in the street or other public places.