Police advice ahead of Bonfire night in North Edinburgh

Last year Bonfire Night in Edinburgh was a busy one, particularly for police officers working in the North of the city.

Officers saw an increase in antisocial behaviour and fireworks related calls, which resulted in extensive damage being caused to a police vehicle.

This year police  are asking members of the public to be vigilant for any antisocial behaviour and report any disturbances.

Officers also ask parents to know where their children are and what they’re doing and have issued the following advice.

Not only does illegal firework activity cause major disruption to local communities, it is also exceptionally dangerous for children to play with fireworks and set them off in an irresponsible manner.

It is illegal to supply fireworks to persons under the age of 18 and is also an offence for under 18’s to have fireworks in a public place.

Members of the public should never throw or set off a firework in the street, onto a road or in a public place.

Anyone caught causing a nuisance with fireworks will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal or the children’s Reporter as appropriate and any fireworks found on a person under 18 will be confiscated.

If you break the law on fireworks you could potentially face a prison sentence or receive a substantial fine.

Chief Inspector Stevie Sutherland, Local Area Commander for North West Edinburgh, said:  “Bonfire Night can be a lot of fun, but we would stress that this is best enjoyed at an organised display.

“However what we would ask is that if you know of young people participating in fireworks related anti-social behaviour please reach out to them and stop them before either hurt themselves or others, cause damage to public property or commit an offence.

“If you are aware of any anti-social behaviour happening in your area, please contact police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.  Alternatively you can anonymously get in touch with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Please visit the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s website for more information.