Edinburgh council leader urges residents to 'remember Bonfire Night for right reasons'
Edinburgh’s council leader is urging residents to stay safe tonight by attending organised displays and following safety advice.
Councillor Jane Meagher said while Bonfire Night is ‘a highlight for many, it’s also a time when serious injuries and accidents can occur if fireworks and bonfires aren’t handled safely.’
In recent years November 5 has seen widespread disorder across parts of the city, with some people aiming fireworks and other projectiles at emergency service workers and vehicles.
Making an appeal to residents, the council leader said: “We’ve enjoyed a fantastic few days of celebrations across the city, with residents of all ages getting into the Halloween spirit on Friday night and some well-attended community firework displays over the weekend.
“As we look ahead to Bonfire Night tonight, preparations are well underway for another evening of celebration, with further community displays are other activities planned across the city. While this is, of course, a highlight for many, it’s also a time when serious injuries and accidents can occur if fireworks and bonfires aren’t handled safely.
“This is why we’ve been working so closely with our partners and community groups to put measures in place, such as Firework Control Zones, to help make Bonfire Night safe and memorable for all the right reasons.”
This year, fireworks will be banned in Balerno, Calton Hill, Corstorphine, Gracemount, Longstone, Moredun, Niddrie, Seafield and Sighthill between October 31 and November 9. People who break the law could receive a maximum penalty of £5,000 fine or face a six-month custodial sentence.
‘Dispersal zones’ will also be in place where police can tell groups of two or more people engaging in anti-social behaviour to leave a designated area for up to 24 hours. Officers may also be placed on some Lothian Buses services.
Cllr Meagher added: “We’ve also been engaging with young people over many months to promote firework safety, checking and clearing fly-tipping hotspots to reduce fire risks and co-ordinating CCTV coverage to support community safety.
“I’d encourage you once again to attend one the many organised displays taking place across the city tonight - they’re not only the best way to enjoy fireworks, they’re also the safest. And please look after yourself and your loved ones by following the simple safety advice. I want us all to remember Bonfire Night for the right reasons this year.
A full list of community events is published on the Edinburgh Council website. Residents are also being asked to secure bins and report any large items that could be used for bonfires by emailing [email protected]. You can report unauthorised bonfires or firework displays to the council by calling 0131 200 2000, Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.