Remember, remember… the impact of fireworks

While fireworks can be great fun, they can be dangerous if not used properly.

During the bonfire season, many firework injuries treated at emergency departments happen at informal private displays. Over half of those requiring treatment are children. The most common injuries as a result of fireworks are to the wrist, hand, head, face and neck.

David McGill, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Scotland’s National Burn Centre said:

“Unfortunately, we see a rise in burn injuries around Bonfire Night, in both adults and children. We carry out an annual audit of firework injuries across Scotland, and in 2025 there were 42 injuries recorded over the four-week period around Guy Fawkes night .

The majority of these occurred at home or private properties. Injuries reported ranged from minor, such as burns to the fingers, to severe including loss of fingers and complex eye injuries with loss of vision. “Children are frequently burned with sparklers. There's a misunderstanding of how hot they can get. They can cause severe burns to fingers and hands, or catch clothing alight. Sparklers should never be given to children under the age of five. 

Great care should be taken around fireworks, especially when children are near. To minimise the risks to you and your family, a publicly arranged event would be by far the safest way to view fireworks.”

This Bonfire Night make sure you know the law and best practice around the use of fireworks, which are in place to reduce incidents and injury:

o It is illegal to buy, attempt to buy, give or in any way make a firework available to someone under the age of 18, other than category F1 fireworks like sparklers.

o It is illegal to set fireworks off before 6pm and after 11pm. This extends to midnight on 5 November and 1am on Hogmanay, Chinese New Year and Diwali.

o It is illegal to set off fireworks in public places, including streets and parks. o It is illegal to set off fireworks in a Firework Control Zone, including on private property, other than category F1 fireworks like sparklers.

o It’s safer to celebrate at an organised event if there’s one in your area, but if you’re planning a private display at home, make sure you know how to keep you and your loved ones safe:

✓ Keep a safe distance.

✓ Follow the Firework Code and read instructions before use.

✓ Not all fireworks are suitable for private use. It depends on the size of your garden. Visit firescotland.gov.uk for more safety advice and to download their leaflet.

o It’s important to think of others and be aware of the impact fireworks can have on those around you. The loud and sudden noises can be distressing for some people with sensory impairment, and pet owners know only too well the distress they can cause animals.

Enjoy fireworks safely.

For more advice visit firescotland.gov.uk

To report the misuse of fireworks anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.