Preparations are underway across the region in the run up to bonfire night, and officers are reminding people to stay safe.
In the last few weeks, officers have been visiting retailers and reminding them of the law and their responsibilities, and offering them advice on the sale and safe storage of fireworks. Local officers have also been speaking to school children highlighting the dangers of misusing fireworks and lighting bonfires.
Bonfire night is a particularly busy night for police and their partners, and each year they are faced with incidents where people act irresponsibly with fireworks, which can result in serious injury. On one such incident which happened on Tuesday 3 November 2015, a 17 year old and a 15 year old were both injured in Gretna when a firework went off in the hand of one of the lads . Both were treated at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary for burn injuries and criminal enquiries are currently being carried out into the incident.
There will be enhanced patrols throughout Dumfries and Galloway over the coming days and officers will take swift action against anyone breaking the law. It is against the law to set off fireworks in public places, and it is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to buy or carry fireworks.
Inspector Stuart Wilson of the Community Policing Unit said today:
“Keeping people safe is our priority this bonfire night and we want it to be a safe and enjoyable night of fun for all the family. We would recommend that people go to an organised display, where they can enjoy the fireworks in a safe environment. However, if you are holding your own fireworks party, please don’t put your family and friends at risk. Anyone lighting bonfires or setting off fireworks should take sensible precautions and consider the potential fire risks.
“We know that fireworks can be fun, but it’s important to remember that some people, and indeed animals may be scared or distressed by fireworks.
“In the run up to bonfire night, we are also encouraging people to look after their wheelie bins to prevent them becoming a target for vandals. Our advice would be to keep them stored away and only place them out on collection day.“
Residents are reminded that if they do see anyone acting suspiciously to call Police Scotland on 101.
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