On the run up to Fireworks night a number of measures are being put in place to ensure safety throughout the time of the seasonal event. Officers from Bellshill Sub Division have been informed of the premises that are licensed to sell Fireworks and intend to enforce the relevant legislation and procedures involved in the sale of Fireworks.
Trading Standards Officers at North Lanarkshire Council and Officers at Bellshill Police Office will ensure the sale and use of Fireworks remains a safe practice. Aldi in Bellshill was given a visit to ensure the safe storage and compliance of fireworks legislation by Constable Mulholland. Store Assistant Manager Hugh Friel was happy to report the safe practice adopted within the store and informed Police that they only keep dummy fireworks on display with the real ones kept locked and secure.
Area Inspector Stewart Hurry, at Bellshill Police Office, said “This time of year does see an increase in firework related calls to the police. While it is never our intention to spoil anyone’s fun, the use of fireworks must be carefully monitored and for a person to be throwing them about the street or to be placing them through a letterbox is not just dangerous but totally irresponsible”.
He went onto say:
“This behaviour will not be tolerated and any incidents of this nature will be fully investigated in order to identify individuals who are responsible at placing others at risk of serious injury. My officers have been performing joint patrols in the area along with the Fire Service and as such have visited the areas which we have experienced problems with in the past. By working together we can tackle any issues arising and educate people on the safe use of fireworks and dangers surrounding setting fires, not to mention the offences people commit whilst performing these acts.”
• It is an offence under the Firework (safety) regulations 1997 for supplying Fireworks to a person under the age of 18 years old.
• A person under 18 years old is prohibited from possessing an adult Firework in a public place under the Fireworks Regulations 2004.
• Fireworks are generally prohibited to be let off between the hours of 23:00 and 07:00 in terms of the Fireworks (Scotland) Regulations 2004.
If any members of public within North Lanarkshire Division has any concern in relation to Firework offences within our community, please call in confidence to our call centre on 01698 202400 to report the matter.
