POLICE in the Scottish Borders say that fireworks are only fun when used responsibly and that the misuse of fireworks can have devastating consequences.
And officers are keen to highlight the legislation which came into effect last year.
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A spokesperson said: “We know that in the lead-up to Halloween and November 5th, there will be an increase in the sale and possession of Fireworks and Pyrotechnics.
“Please be aware that there are recent additions to firework legislation - The Fireworks (Scotland) Miscellaneous Amendments Regulations 2021 and Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act 2022
“It is illegal for the general public to set off fireworks before 6 pm and 11 pm in the evening.
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This is extended to midnight on the 5th of November and 1 am on New Year's Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali.
“Fireworks can only be sold from premises with a license to store the fireworks.
They can only be sold to the general public during the 7 am and 6 pm daytime hours. Only 5kg are allowed in any one purchase.
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“It is an offence to have any firework (other than a category 1 firework, e.g. sparklers) in any public place, including the street and parks.
“As of 10 October 2022, it is an offence to knowingly or attempt to buy or give/make available a firework or pyrotechnic article for a person under 18 years of age.
“As of 10th October 2022, it is an offence to use a firework or pyrotechnic article in a manner that involves the use of a lit, ignited or recently lit or ignited firework or pyrotechnic item, and the victim (or intended victim) is an emergency worker.
“An emergency worker is a Constable, a person employed by the SFRS , SAS and registered medical personnel as defined in the Emergency Workers (Scotland) Act 2005. “
Full details of these pieces of legislation can be found at www.legislation.gov.uk
Report any known misuse or illegal selling of fireworks directly to the police via 101, anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org or via our online form www.scotland.police.uk/secureforms/c3/
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