Bonfire and Firework Safety

Plan ahead for a safe Bonfire / Fireworks Season

The West Lothian Community Safety Partnership is made up of public organisations including the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, West Lothian Council and voluntary organisations.

West Lothian Community Safety Partners bring about collaboration, innovation and resilience to the planning of annual events such as the fireworks period. Partners use data and intelligence as well as community feedback, evaluations and analysis from  the previous year, including the nature and geographical spread of calls.  Community Safety Partners use community involvement when planning and make use of innovative interventions working collaboratively with other agencies, and communities. 

West Lothian Council are committed to improving community safety and we will continue to work in partnership with Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and other Community Safety Partners  in tackling any issues regarding fireworks. As such, we will continue to monitor any calls received regarding the use of fireworks during this year as it unfolds. 

Proactive Working

Together, the Community Safety Partnership approach is to promote attendance at licensed bonfires and the safe use of fireworks.  They do this in a number of ways. They will continue to  utilise preventative measures which include; education inputs to schools, raising awareness within local communities by carrying out effective early intervention and prevention with young people and families.  They will also engage with young people using diversionary activities within local community groups and emphasise parental responsibility and the benefits of community involvement.

Contact Us

With the support from members of the public, they are promoting safety and responsibility this bonfire period and reminding West Lothian communities what they should do should they encounter any suspicious activity:

If you encounter an unregistered bonfire that is already alight please contact the SFRS on 999

Any illegal or other suspicious activity can be reported to Police Scotland by calling 101, or for issues of a non-serious nature use their  Contact Us  form, or in an emergency call 999. 

Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

This Bonfire / Firework Season make sure you know the law and rules around the use of fireworks, which are in place to reduce incidents and injury:

• If you're planning a private display at home, keep you and your loved ones safe:Keep a safe distance, follow the Firework Code and read instructions before use.
• Remember, not all fireworks are suitable for private use. It depends on the size of your garden. 
• It's important to think of others and be aware of the impact fireworks can have on those around you.
  • Loud and sudden noises can be distressing for those with sensory impairment
  • Loud noises can also be distressing to animals and we all know only too well the distress they can cause to pets, zoo and farm animals. If you are worried about an animal call 03000 999 999, or Contact - Scottish SPCA.