Have your say! Should the public be able to buy fireworks?
The annual fireworks shows on Bonfire Night and New Year’s Eve are a treat for many - but as we all know, they aren’t the only time you’ll hear a bang and a flash overhead. Late nights spent calming the pets and wishing you had some earplugs to deal with antisocial pyrotechnics a few doors down can make us all wish for the end of fireworks.
Have your say! Should fireworks be banned altogether? Should they only happen at authorised events - or should we all have the chance to make our own light show? Comment below, and join in on the conversation below.
According to the Scottish Daily Express, Glasgow City Council has tightened restrictions on fireworks beyond the national regulations this year. In 12 designated areas across Glasgow, setting off fireworks in private gardens or on personal property would be against the law.
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Councillor Ruairi Kelly, who holds the position of city convener for neighbourhood services and assets, previously stated: "Firework control zones are a new concept and it's necessary we test the interest in having zones introduced in different places in the city. The concerns about anti-social behaviour and the misuse of fireworks are entirely understandable and there may be other more effective ways of dealing with this issue, such as tighter restrictions on sales."
"But requests for firework control zones have been received and those people who have submitted applications for a zone are entitled to have their views properly considered and consulted upon before any conclusion is reached."
There is a national law governing the use of fireworks, which local authorities can tighten if they choose to. The basic law says that that fireworks cannot be discharged between 11pm and 7am, except on Bonfire Night, New Year's Eve, Chinese New Year, and Diwali when the curfew is extended.
Fireworks are categorised into four classifications, with varying degrees of control on their sale. Category 1 includes smaller items such as sparklers that are safe for indoor use given precautions are taken.
Category 2 and 3 fireworks are larger, require considerable safety space, and may only be purchased by adults. The most awe-inspiring and hazardous, Category 4 fireworks, are strictly for professional use in organised displays.
Have your say! Should fireworks be banned altogether? Should they only happen at authorised events - or should we all have the chance to make our own light show? Comment below, and join in on the conversation below.