Planning your own fireworks for Bonfire Night? Read this first

Orkney Islands Council, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland are reminding anyone planning their own fireworks this week about the law around buying and using them, and how to celebrate safely.

With Bonfire Night falling this Thursday, organised community displays remain the safest way to enjoy fireworks. For anyone planning a display at home, the rules are clear: in Scotland, fireworks can only be set off between 6pm and 11pm, extended to midnight on 5 November, and it is a criminal offence to buy fireworks for anyone under 18.

Gary Foubister, Trading Standards Service Manager at Orkney Islands Council, said: “Organised events are always the best option where they’re available, but we know some people will choose to hold their own displays. If you do, follow the Fireworks Code, keep to safe distances and check the weather before you start. In Orkney, the wind can change how safe a display is very quickly.

“Our Trading Standards Officers have been visiting licensed retailers to make sure fireworks are being sold and stored within the law. Buying fireworks for anyone under 18 is a criminal offence, with penalties of up to £5,000 or six months in prison.”

Group Commander David McGroarty of Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in Orkney said: “Bonfire Night is an important celebration, but it’s crucial we think about those around us. People with sensory impairments, including those with neurological differences such as autism, can find fireworks overwhelming, and animals often experience real distress.

“Our advice remains clear: where organised public displays are available, they are always the safest option. Please read our Firework Code and fire safety guidance before using fireworks.”

Chief Inspector Scott Robertson at Kirkwall Police Station added: “Bonfire Night can be one of the busiest nights for our policing teams. There is legislation in place covering when fireworks can be used, and tougher sentences for anyone who attacks emergency service workers with fireworks.

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

Residents are also being warned not to build unauthorised bonfires, which pose serious safety risks and may result in enforcement action.

Practical safety information is available from the Health and Safety Executive at www.hse.gov.uk and from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service at www.firescotland.gov.uk.