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Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Press Release

23rd October 2009

Safetywise Urge The Responsible Use Of Fireworks

As the 5th of November and Guy Fawkes events across the country approach Trading Standards and Fire Officers have now completed inspections of all premises selling fireworks in the Western Isles. Part of the visit included ensuring the safe storage and sale of fireworks, as required in the conditions of the traders explosives licence. Safetywise, the multi agency safety organisation for the Western Isles, urges the public assist in preventing accidents with fireworks and promote good citizenship.

Safetywise are also taking the opportunity to remind people that it is illegal to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, those who wish to purchase fireworks must be over the age of 18, it is a criminal offence to set off fireworks in a public place and it is also an offence for those under the age of 18 to possess a firework or sparklers within a public place.

Marina MacSween, Chair of Safetywise commented:

“We want the public to enjoy themselves but also to act in a responsible manner. The law is very clear on how can and who cannot purchase fireworks and where indeed they should be used. If simple guidelines are put in place and adhered to this can also increase safety and prevent or reduce accidents”

The following guidelines should be adhered to by all communities:

BEFORE THE DISPLAY:

• Check the fireworks you buy are suitable for the size of garden and that they conform to British Standards

• Read the instructions in daylight
  One person, who is clearly identified, should be responsible for the fireworks.

WHAT YOU WILL REQUIRE ON THE NIGHT:

• Torch for checking instructions
• Bucket of water
• Eye protection and gloves
• Bucket of soft earth to put fireworks in
• A board for flat bottomed fireworks
• Suitable supports for catherine wheels and appropriate launchers for rockets

DURING THE DISPLAY:

• Don’t drink alcohol if you are involved in setting off fireworks
• Light fireworks at arm’s length with a taper
• Stand well back and keep others at a safe distance
• Never go back to a lit firework
• Never put fireworks in your pocket or thrown them
• Always supervise children
• Store fireworks in a metal box, keeping it tightly closed between uses
• Keep pets indoors
  

AFTER THE DISPLAY:

• Use tongs or gloves to collect used fireworks

SPARKLERS:

• They are unsuitable for children under the age of 5
• Light one at a time
• Wear gloves when holding sparklers
• Put used sparklers, hot end down, into a bucket of sand

BONFIRES:

• Should be at least 18m (60ft) away from houses, trees, hedges, fences or sheds
• Use domestic firelighters
• Never use petrol, paraffin or other flammable liquids to light your bonfire.
• Do not burn tyres, soft furnishings or plastic materials that will give off poisonous fumes.
• Do not put aerosol cans or other pressurised containers on the bonfire.
  

 

Ag Obair Còmhla Airson Nan Eilean - Working Together For The Western Isles

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Sandwick Road, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, HS1 2BW.
Tel: 0845 6007090 Fax: 01851 705349 e-mail: enquiries@cne-siar.gov.uk
© Comhairle nan Eilean Siar 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

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