Campaign to stop Bonfire Night attacks on emergency services launches
Incidents were on the rise last year during firework events
Last updated 29th Jan 2024
A Crimestoppers campaign to stop attacks on emergency service workers on duty is set to start on Thursday.
It comes as cities prepare for Bonfire Night, and aims to prevent injuries to police, firefighters, and ambulance workers responding to incidents around the event.
Last year there was a reported rise in incidents where workers were hit by fireworks and other projectiles.
In Edinburgh, two police officers had to be treated for head injuries after bricks were thrown at their vehicle, and in a separate incident, a group of up to 100 young people the fireworks at members of the public.
"Completely unacceptable"
Crimestoppers will lead the campaign, with the support of the Scottish Government’s Building Safer Communities team.
National manager of Crimestoppers in Scotland, Angela Parker, said: “Our charity believes everyone has the right to feel safe, no more so than Scotland's emergency services who risk their lives to keep us safe.
"Bonfire Night should be safe and fun for everyone, but unfortunately, last year we saw serious attacks on crews.
"That's why we are asking anyone with information on those planning attacks to get in touch with our charity 100% anonymously.
"No-one will ever know you contacted us, and your information could be preventing serious injury or harm or even loss of life for emergency workers."
The charity is hoping to encourage the public to report any planned attacks ahead of Bonfire Night, and help collect information after any incidents.
Community Safety and Victims Minister Siobhian Brown MSP said: "With Bonfire Night approaching, it is paramount that our emergency service workers can go about their duties safe from harm.
"Any attack on fire, ambulance and police crews is utterly despicable.”
She continued: "Fireworks can cause serious, life-changing injuries or even prove lethal.
“If someone does plan on using fireworks, I urge them to please do so responsibly and safely and to be mindful of their neighbours.
"I would also ask them to consider the various harmful impacts fireworks can have on vulnerable people, animals and property."
"Utterly despicable"
Police Scotland's Assistant Chief Constable Tim Mairs urged people to come forward, saying: “If our communities believe they have information relating to fireworks-related disorder, or anyone planning an attack on emergency services then please contact Crimestoppers anonymously to help us prevent such incidents occurring."
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service assistant chief officer Andy Watt said attacks were “completely unacceptable”.
Meanwhile, Scottish Ambulance Service chief executive Michael Dickson said: "Those on the front line should never have to fear for their safety.”
He added: “We understand the Fireworks season is a chance for people to enjoy themselves but we ask them to act responsibly."