THE TRADITIONAL BONFIRE NIGHT celebrations should be an enjoyable occasion for all the family – but can also be fraught with danger if care is not taken.
That is why police are encouraging all taking part to be safe and enjoy this weekend, highlighting what is typically one of their busiest weekends.
Safer Communities Inspector Colin Taylor from the North East Division explained: “Operation Fawkes has been running for several years which bring key partners such as Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray councils, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland together to reduce the opportunity of anti-social behaviour and wilful fire-raising incidents around bonfire night.
“Where officers have visited schools across the North East over the last month, inputs have been given to raise awareness about the dangers of fireworks, to explain the challenges emergency services encounter on bonfire night and the potential consequences of setting fires when others may require that fire appliance for a genuine emergency.
“We, and our colleagues in Scottish Fire and Rescue, are acutely aware that sometimes antisocial behaviour is directed at fire crews around Bonfire night.
“This kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable and robust action will be taken to detect offenders. We will be working alongside Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to provide support and resilience in the event of any anti-social behaviour targeted towards them.
“Across the north East there will be additional high visibility patrols in key towns to prevent and deter such behaviour.
“Organised fireworks displays in Aberdeen, and in towns in Aberdeenshire and Moray will be more spectacular than putting on your own display and crucially safer for you, your family and friends.
“We want everyone to be able to celebrate the 5th November safely and in a way that doesn’t require the intervention of the emergency services.
“I would urge any member of the public who sees someone starting an unauthorised bonfire and any other Anti-Social Behaviour to contact 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously. Together we can help each other stay safe this bonfire night.”