Bonfire Safety 2023

Plan ahead for a safe Bonfire Night

The West Lothian Community Safety Partnership is made up of public organisations including the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, West Lothian Council and voluntary organisations.

Together, with the support from members of the public, they are promoting safety and responsibility this bonfire period and reminding West Lothian communities what they should do should they encounter any suspicious activity.

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

Illegal or any other suspicious activity can be reported to Police Scotland by calling 101, or in an emergency call 999.

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

This Bonfire Night 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 if there's one in your area, but if you're planning a private display at home, make sure you know how to keep you and your loved ones safe:

·         Keep a safe distance.

·         Follow the Firework Code and read instructions before use.

·         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. The loud and sudden noises can be distressing for those with sensory impairment, and pet owners know only too well the distress they can cause animals. If you are worried about an animal call 03000 999 999.

Trading Standards provides information on the Sale and Storage of Fireworks. You can make a report to Trading Standards anonymously if you have concerns about fireworks or bonfire material.

The Firework Events that have been approved for this year are:

Firework Control Zones

There will be no firework control zones in place for the up and coming 2023 Bonfire Season in West Lothian.

All Local Authorities are being encouraged by the Scottish Government to use and learn from the 2023 Bonfire Season to inform future years.

The Community Safety partners will familiarise themselves with the new guidance /discretionary powers and consider any learning from this Bonfire Season to inform the future in regards to Firework Control Zones.

There is a robust Bonfire Planning arrangements in place with Council Services and our Community Safety Partners