Provost Winifred Sloan launches the No Proof, No Sale initiative
"Have a safe and enjoyable fireworks season this year' is the message from South Ayrshire Council after their Community Safety Partnership announced a 'Bonfire Watch campaign – plus a number of other measures to stop injuries and anti-social behaviour.
Strathclyde Police, the Fire and Rescue Service and Council Officers from Waste Management, Trading Standards, Community Support and Anti-social Behaviour will all join forces for the campaign.
The initiative aims to reduce the number of illegal bonfires being constructed or lit and associated anti-social behaviour. Members of the public are being urged to contact the Council if they see any waste being gathered which could form a bonfire.
Councillor Margaret Toner, Chair of the Community Safety Partnership said: "Properly organised and safe bonfires are enjoyed by many people. This campaign will help people to remain safe and reduce damage and injuries associated with illegal bonfires, as well as tackling related anti-social behaviour."
Trading Standards have been working with Strathclyde Police to ensure that all firework suppliers are registered or licensed and that their fireworks are stored safely.
Only fireworks which comply with the British Standard are permitted to be sold and certain types of firework, such as bangers and air-bombs have been banned. The Trading Standards team will also advise on age restrictions on the sale of fireworks to drive home the message that there can be no excuse for selling to under 18s, who are also banned from possessing fireworks in a public place.
This will be followed up by undercover checks to ensure the 'No Proof, No Sale' message is being heeded.
Councillor Peter Convery, responsible for Trading Standards issues commented: "Retailers are strongly advised to make use of the Young Scot proof of age scheme promoted by South Ayrshire Council. A 'No Proof, No Sale' policy is the only foolproof way of avoiding making underage sales.
"This year, more than ever, we are issuing a clear message to shopkeepers that we will take strong enforcement action against anyone making underage sales".
Councillor Toner added "More than anything, we want people to enjoy the season and avoid the misery of injuries and anti-social behaviour often associated with fireworks and bonfire night. By working closely with the Police and Fire Service, the Council is determined to achieve high safety standards throughout our area."
If anyone has concerns over how fireworks are being stored or sold in South Ayrshire they should contact Trading Standards on 01292 616060.
To report any suspicious bonfires, readers should call 0845 8502825, which is open 24 hours a day.