Control Zones to combat firework disruptions throughout Glasgow

By Miley Coates

With Bonfire Night and Halloween fast approaching, firework disruptions soon become the new normal, but when illegal explosives hit the market, injuries and assaults take the forefront.

Fireworks display l image by JaCZhou via Gettyimages

Firework usage has increased rapidly, and anti-social behaviour has followed suit. Large city areas, such as Manchester, have recorded over 1,000 separate incidents of firework-related anti-social behaviour in recent seasons. Glasgow is gradually beginning to mimic these staggering stats.

Heather, 39, said: “I have heard an increase in fireworks, but that’s what happens at this time of year.”

Firework Control Zones (FCZ) have seen serious enforcement throughout Glasgow’s surrounding areas, making it illegal to use fireworks anywhere. FCZ is designed to crack down on illegal firework use, with offenders facing up to £5,000 fines or months behind bars. Despite these control zones, residents of Glasgow question how effective they truly are.

Matthew, 25, said: “I think FCZ should last longer. I would just say, don’t use them.”

Firework safety awareness is also being questioned by residents, with more under-18s engaging in the illegal purchase of fireworks. Many are now led to believe that social media may be the answer.

Anna, 20, said: “I think people in my area probably aren’t aware of the dangers. I think people under 18 having access to fireworks is really silly. I think people can be educated through social media.”

Similarly, Heather said: “I have two boys, nine and six. One of his older friends got hold of fireworks, and it ended up breaking a window. They are so dangerous.

“When I was little, we had firework awareness in school; the fire brigade would come into the school and teach us all about the injuries. Like people losing their eyes and getting third-degree burns. That really stayed with me; I’m terrified of them now.”

Many are calling for people to learn about firework misuse in School as concerns surrounding firework injuries rise; Matthew claims, “People are aware of the dangers. They just don’t care.”

For upcoming seasonal events, firework safety is a priority. As FCZ monitors the distribution and use of the explosives, Glaswegians are left with further clarity this upcoming holiday.