As firework season approaches, East Ayrshire Council’s community safety arrangements are being strengthened as partnership agencies join forces to encourage communities to celebrate safely.
East Ayrshire Council is working in partnership with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and Police Scotland to provide vital safety advice to ensure that residents enjoy this year’s bonfire night in a safe manner.
Wherever possible, residents are being encouraged to attend an organised event, where all the appropriate fire safety measures should be in place. There is a greater risk of accidents taking place at private displays, where bonfires can quickly get out of control.
Councillor Jim McMahon, Cabinet Spokesperson for Housing, Transport and Communities, said:
“We are encouraging everyone to consider safer options to celebrate bonfire night this year. Any bonfire can easily get out of hand and spread to fences, sheds and adjacent properties, causing serious injuries to people and wildlife. Fireworks too are dangerous if not used correctly and safely and can cause great distress to many people and their animals.
“All of this puts significant strain on our emergency services and the NHS, so we can all play our part by making some safer choices this bonfire season.
“Our message is simple - don’t make bonfires - and if you are planning to hold a firework display, please follow the firework code. Our partners in local emergency services will be enforcing safety measures and removing any bonfires and potential bonfire materials that present a risk.”
During this bonfire period there will be an increased presence by all partners across East Ayrshire as they provide reassurance to local communities by engaging, explaining and encouraging safe behaviours.
Over the coming weeks, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service will be engaging with local schools in the run up to 5th November, to increase awareness and highlight the dangers associated with bonfires and fireworks.