Warning issued over private firework displays amid pandemic

A new campaign has warned about the dangers of private firework displays this year amid the cancellation of many public events due to Covid-19.

In a joint operational message, the Scottish Government, Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, NHS Scotland, and the Scottish SPCA have warned against private firework displays.

The campaign, called #FireworkSafety, aims to educate young people about the dangers of fireworks and bonfires and how to keep themselves safe.

The ambassador for the campaign is Ben McCabe, who was seriously injured by a firework when he was just four years old.

Ben’s mother Amy McCabe was working at the hospital that he was rushed to.

Mrs McCabe reflected on the horrific night in November 2011, saying: “I can’t even explain what goes through your head at a time like that. It was absolutely terrifying.

“Ben was at a private fireworks display just outside our house when a firework went off course and went inside his shirt and caught fire.

“He was rushed straight to the hospital where I was working. Seeing him like that is something I will never forget.

“Not being able to help your own child when they are going through that is a living nightmare.”

Ben suffered third degree burns and had to endure weeks of agonising treatment and skin grafts.

Mrs McCabe added: “I don’t think we, as a family, will ever be OK around fireworks. Ben still has to have regular hospital visits to this day, eight years later.”

Scottish SPCA head of education, policy and research Gilly Mendes Ferreira said the agencies came together due to the prediction there will be an increase in private displays this year.

Ms Mendes Ferreira said: “It’s looking likely that coronavirus restrictions will force the cancellation of many organised events.

“We have joined forces to ask that people be safe, be kind and be smart around fireworks and bonfires.

“We realise that people still want to enjoy fireworks but we ask that they do it responsibly.

“Fireworks have a negative effect on many people and animals across the country and we are asking people to show respect for people, their environment and any animals, domestic, farm and wild, that might be in the area.

“People should let their neighbours know they are planning a fireworks display as this will allow them to safeguard against any distress some people and animals may face.

“We also ask that people check bonfires before setting them on fire to make sure there are no animals taking shelter underneath.

“People should always follow the fireworks code and know what to do in an emergency.”