Remember, remember the fifth of November

There isn't much we can do about a broken tooth on a toffee apple but what can we do to stay safe when observing some of the other Bonfire Night traditions? If you are visiting a public display this weekend or carrying out your own, here are some things to keep in mind to stay safe. 

The Scottish Fire & Rescue Service always advises it is safer to attend an organised public firework event. This means you can admire the explosive bangs and bursts of colour overhead from a safe and regulated distance. If you choose to carry out your own display, remember, remember to do so safely and legally.

Safe Practice and Disposal of Fireworks

It is illegal to use fireworks before 6pm or after 11pm but the time limit is extended to midnight on Bonfire Night. Don’t modify, tamper with or misuse fireworks. Soak any used fireworks in water for a few hours before safely disposing of them in your outdoor bin.

Personal Injury and Product Liability

Fireworks and sparklers are readily available in shops and from online retailers at this time of year and they are heavily regulated to ensure they are safe. We're talking about explosives here so the best practice is to be extra careful when you are around them, even if you are only spectating. Make sure to check that any firework you purchase carries the CE mark. This mark is an indicator that the firework meets the required safety standard.

It won't always be obvious if there is a defect in a firework from how it looks. As a consumer, you are generally entitled to assume that the firework you purchased is safe and, provided you follow all of the safety instructions on the packaging, you will not be injured. However, if you are injured as a result of a defect in a firework then you may be entitled to claim for damages. Fireworks are goods covered by the Consumer Protection Act 1987. If a firework is defective, you may have a claim against the producer, manufacturer or supplier under the 1987 Act.

Criminal Injury

If you are injured as a result of a criminal act this Bonfire Night you may be entitled to make an application to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (the Scheme) is government-funded to compensate blameless victims of violent crime. A claim under this scheme is different from an action for damages that would be pursued in the Scottish courts. So long as the crime is reported to the Police, you can apply for compensation. The scheme sets out the specific compensation due for each particular injury. Our specialist personal injury lawyers can guide you through the criminal injuries application process.

If you would like to speak to one of our specialist personal injury lawyers please contact us on 0800 904 7777 and we will be happy to speak to you on a no-win, no-fee basis. Alternatively, you could make an online enquiry about a personal injury claim through our website.