Remember, remember, safety is of the essence this November - Lorna Slater
Bonfire Night has a special place in our calendar. It is a chance to gather with friends and neighbours, wrap up against the November cold and enjoy a community celebration.
But that enjoyment depends on remembering that fireworks are not toys and that our actions have consequences beyond our own garden.
I have written before about the distress fireworks can cause animals and vulnerable residents. This year, I want to focus on those who are left to deal with the consequences.
As we approach 5 November, I want to pay tribute to everyone who will spend the evening keeping the rest of us safe. Firefighters, ambulance crews, police officers, control room staff and all emergency responders deserve our thanks and respect. For many, this is one of the busiest nights of the year.
The figures show the pressure they face. Last Bonfire Night, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service received 751 calls in just eight hours and crews attended more than 250 bonfires. Two attacks on firefighters were also recorded.
It is hard to imagine a more misplaced expression of celebration than throwing fireworks or missiles at the people arriving to put out a fire or help someone in danger.
There is no excuse for that behaviour. Firefighters should never have to wonder whether a crowd will attack them as they leave their appliance. Paramedics should be able to reach someone needing medical attention without being threatened or obstructed.
These workers are there for all of us, often in difficult circumstances. They deserve to do their jobs safely and return home to their families.
There has been progress. Police Scotland and the fire service have credited communities and partnership working with a significant reduction in serious disorder.
Edinburgh has expanded its Firework Control Zones, from four when the scheme began in 2024, to nine last year and 14 this year. These zones allow communities to limit fireworks in areas where there are particular concerns, while still allowing organised public displays.
The Scottish Greens have long pushed for stronger controls, and helped secure the powers in the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022 that allow councils to create these zones. Green councillors, including Dan Heap in Edinburgh, have helped turn those powers into action. The growth of the scheme shows that communities will use these powers when given a voice.
But fourteen zones are not enough if other neighbourhoods remain exposed to dangerous misuse. Councils across Scotland should be supported to expand zones wherever residents identify a need, and it should be straightforward for communities to apply.
We also need the Scottish Government to implement the remaining parts of the 2022 Act, including a licensing system with mandatory safety training and limits on when fireworks can be supplied or used. These protections remain paused.
I am not calling for an end to celebration. Organised displays can bring people together and create wonderful memories. I am asking for more thought, restraint and respect.
Follow the rules, respect Firework Control Zones, never point or throw fireworks, and do not put emergency workers or anyone else in danger.
This Bonfire Night, let’s remember the people behind the uniforms. A moment of recklessness can change a life. A little care from each of us can help make sure everyone gets home safely.