This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Health and fire chiefs unite for firework safety
03/11/2003
Two of Scotland's senior professionals in the fields of
health and fire safety have united today to call for both
responsible sales and responsible use of fireworks this
year.
Their message echoes those issued by Scottish Executive
Ministers Andy Kerr and Margaret Curran last week.
Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Fire Services Dennis
Davis said:
"Last year we know there were 114 firework related
injuries reported in Scotland. We all realise that there
may well be many unreported injuries and even more likely
many occasions when people or animals were frightened or
fireworks caused a nuisance.
"If fireworks are used it is vital that they are used
responsibly. Letting them off in the street is not just
wrong it is highly dangerous and certainly not in any way
cool. Shops that sell fireworks are licensed because
fireworks are explosives and there have been tragic deaths
because of misuse. We must remember that when using them
especially at home in the closer confines of gardens. Even
sparklers can cause serious lifelong injuries to the tender
skin of small children and should never be used unless
there is someone older watching over the little ones.
"An organised event is often the best way to enjoy the
spectacular display that fireworks give us but my message
is - if you do intend to use them at home make sure the
fireworks meet the quality of the British Standard and
follow the safety guidance given on each firework and in
the Firework Safety Code."
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Andrew Fraser said:
"Last years total of firework injuries shows a sharp
rise on previous years.= The matter of greatest concern is
the number of younger children - 39 aged under 13 years -
who were injured. Each injury is a tragedy for the person
concerned, but we must not lose sight of the fact that
firework injuries are preventable.
"From these figures, we cannot escape the conclusion
that fireworks are getting into the wrong hands. The new
legislation is a major step forward but, at the same time,
wholesalers, retailers and parents have to take particular
care to supply and store fireworks legally and safely. We
are working with police and fire safety colleagues to get
that message over as this fireworks season approaches."