As Bonfire Night approaches The Outer Hebrides Community Safety Partnership is urging the public to enjoy bonfire night safely and to help prevent accidents with fireworks and bonfires.

They are also taking the opportunity to remind people that it is illegal to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, purchasers of fireworks must be 18 or over, it is an offence to set off fireworks in a public place and it is also an offence for anyone under 18 to possess a firework or sparklers in a public place.

A spokesperson said: “We want people to enjoy themselves but to act responsibly. The law is quite clear on who can and cannot buy fireworks and where they should be used. Simple guidelines can also increase safety and prevent or reduce accidents.”

The Partnership is reminding communities of the Safe Home Firework Display Guidelines:

Before The Display

Check the fireworks you buy are suitable for the size of garden and conform to British Standards.
Read the instructions in daylight
One person - clearly identified - should be responsible for fireworks

Things You Will Need On The Night

Torch for checking instructions
Bucket of water
Eye Protection and gloves
Bucket of soft earth to stick fireworks in
A board for flat-bottomed fireworks
Suitable supports for catherine wheels, proper launchers for rockets

During The Display

Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
Light fireworks at arm's length with a taper
Stand well back and keep others back
Never go back to a lit firework
Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
Always supervise children
Store fireworks in a metal box, kept closed between use
Keep pets indoors

After The Display

Use tongs or gloves to collect spent fireworks

Sparklers

Unsuitable for children under five
Light one at a time
Wear gloves when holding sparklers
Put used sparklers hot end down into a bucket of sand or water

Bonfires

Should be at least 18 metres (60ft) away from houses, trees, hedges, fences or sheds
Use domestic firelighters
Never use petrol, paraffin or other flammable liquids.

Nigel Scott
Communications Officer
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

Tel: 01851 709389 (Work)
Tel: 07884 236103 (Mobile)
email: nscott@cne-siar.gov.uk