The Royal Hospital for Children (RHC) in Glasgow and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) have jointly appealed for greater public awareness around fireworks safety.
Sharon Ramsay, a clinical nurse specialist at the Scottish National Burns Centre, based at the RHC, said that every year the centre treats children suffering from severe burns and blast injuries.
“These can be life-changing, especially in older children who’ve lit fireworks while holding them,” she explained. “We’ve seen blast injuries to hands, faces, and eyes some resulting in permanent disability.”
Ramsay urged families to ensure that children watch fireworks from a safe distance.
“If you’re using fireworks at home, please keep children indoors and behind closed windows where they can safely enjoy the display,” she added.
She also warned that many injuries occur after Bonfire Night when leftover fireworks are used unsupervised by young people. “If you’re storing fireworks for another occasion, like New Year’s Eve, please keep them locked away and out of reach of children.”
Kenny Barbour, Deputy Assistant Chief Officer at SFRS, said understanding the risks can significantly reduce accidents.
“Every year we witness people who have been injured by fireworks,” he said. “Fireworks are explosives and people need to understand how dangerous they can be.
“We would always urge people to attend an organised public display where possible. Where that’s not an option, they should always read the Fireworks Code before buying or using fireworks.”
