Every year, we celebrate Bonfire Night, to remember the actions of Guy Fawkes, and his attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament over 400 years ago.
However, in recent years, there has been an increase in young people using fireworks unsafely, which can not only result in police action, but in worst-case scenarios, serious injury.
WHAT IS A FIREWORK?
Before it explodes in the sky in a million lights and colours, a firework is essentially a missile, that launches into the air and explodes. It looks beautiful in the night sky, but can be extremely dangerous if used improperly, or by someone who doesn’t have the necessary experience to use them safely.
Essentially, when you take matters into your own hands and decide to set off a firework in the street, you’re holding an explosive that can hurt you, your pals, or any bystanders in the area. Not so cool if you end up causing an accident.
LAWS
In Scotland, there are laws surrounding the use of fireworks, and if broken, can result in penalties such as fines and even jail time.
Outdoor fireworks cannot legally be purchased by anyone under 18, and indoor fireworks – such as sparklers – cannot be legally bought by anyone under 16.
Restrictions are also in place about when fireworks can be used: usually they can only be used between 7am and 11pm. This extends to midnight on Bonfire Night and 1am on Chinese New Year, Diwali and New Year’s Eve.
Make sure you enjoy #Bonfire19 & don't end up with a criminal record. Throwing a firework at someone or setting them off in public (anywhere but your own back garden) is illegal and could see you being charged with an offence.
More info & tips 👇https://t.co/iVprLpmC6z pic.twitter.com/0lQ8pkljCA
— Police Scotland (@PoliceScotland) November 5, 2019
It is a criminal offence to set off, or launch a firework in roads or public spaces.
If you’re caught breaking the law around fireworks, you can be given an on the spot fine of £90. You can also be fined up to £5,000 and be sentenced to up to six-months in jail.
EVENTS
It’s not all doom and gloom though, as there are plenty of events happening across Scotland that are fun, safe and perfect for capturing a pic for the ‘gram.
Head down to Glasgow Green in Glasgow, to take part in the festivities. Or, why not visit one of the smaller displays in Edinburgh and the surrounding area? Displays are taking place across the Lothian and surrounding areas, including Musselburgh, Burntisland, Kirkcaldy and Arniston.
In Aberdeen, the annual fireworks display is taking place at the Beach Boulevard – the theme is Musicals, so you’ll have a chance to sing along, too.
And in Dundee, displays will wow at both Baxter and Lochee Parks, with more than 20,000 people expected to attend.
There are hundreds of organised events taking place across Scotland this evening, so make sure you grab your friends and head down, for a fun, safe Bonfire Night.
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