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Plan ahead for a safe Bonfire / Fireworks Season

With the support from members of the public, West Lothian Community Safety Partners are promoting safety and responsibility this bonfire period and reminding West Lothian communities what they should do should they encounter any suspicious activity:

Bonfire Safety 2022

Together, the Community Safety Partnership approach is to promote attendance at licensed bonfires and the safe use of fireworks, in a number of ways. They will continue to  utilise preventative measures which include; education inputs to schools and raising awareness within local communities by carrying out effective early intervention and prevention with young people and families.  They will also engage with young people using diversionary activities and with local community groups and emphasise parental responsibility and the benefits of community involvement.

If you encounter an unregistered bonfire that is already alight please contact the SFRS on 999

Any illegal or other suspicious activity can be reported to Police Scotland by calling 101, or for issues of a non-serious nature use their  Contact Us (opens new window)  form, or in an emergency call 999. 

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

This Bonfire / Firework Season make sure you know the law and rules around the use of fireworks, which are in place to reduce incidents and injury:

  • It is illegal to set off fireworks in public places, including streets and parks.
  • It is illegal to buy, attempt to buy, give or in any way make a firework available to someone under the age of 18, other than category F1 fireworks.
  • It is illegal to set fireworks off before 6pm and after 11pm. This extends to midnight on 5th November and 1am on Hogmanay, Chinese New Year and Diwali.
  • It's safer to celebrate at an organised event and these are listed in the table below.
  • There were no firework control zones in place for the 2024 Bonfire Season in West Lothian.
  • If you're planning a private display at home, keep you and your loved ones safe:Keep a safe distance, follow the Firework Code and read instructions before use.
  • Remember, not all fireworks are suitable for private use. It depends on the size of your garden. 
  • It's important to think of others and be aware of the impact fireworks can have on those around you.
    • Loud and sudden noises can be distressing for those with sensory impairment
    • Loud noises can also be distressing to animals and we all know only too well the distress they can cause to pets, zoo and farm animals. If you are worried about an animal call 03000 999 999, or Contact - Scottish SPCA.