New laws are coming into place, making it a criminal offence to supply fireworks to under-18s.
As of October 10, anyone who buys fireworks or other pyrotechnics for an under-18 could face hefty fines and even jail time. Authorities can now slap proxy-buyers with a £5,000 fine or six-months imprisonment - and in some cases both.
The legislation is being introduced to ensure that fireworks are not misused in an attempt to protect communities in the run up to bonfire night which will take place on November 5th. It comes on the back of steps taken last year, restricting the times fireworks can be used, when they can be bought, and the quantity.
Community Safety Minister Ash Regan said: "These important new powers have been delivered at pace and make it a criminal offence for anyone to supply fireworks or other pyrotechnic articles to a child or person under age 18.
"Fireworks in the wrong hands can cause serious, life-changing injuries or even prove lethal. Preventing their supply - in any way - to under 18s is a wholly welcome step which will bring greater public safety across Scotland."
Chief Inspector Nicola Robison from Police Scotland ’s Partnerships, Preventions and Community Wellbeing Division, said: "Fireworks, when not used lawfully, present a significant risk to the public and so preventing such items from being purchased by, or for, anyone under the age of 18, is vitally important for keeping communities safe.
“Buying fireworks for underage youths can result in a £5,000 fine, six-months imprisonment, or both and our message is clear. Do not risk it. Help us prevent disorder, damage and violence over the Bonfire Night period."
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On the same day that the ban on suppling to under-18s, a separate rule is being introduced to protect Scotland's first responders. Attacks on emergency workers using fireworks will become aggravating factors that can be taken into account when courts sentence offenders.
Last year, firefighters were pelted with fireworks in an Ayrshire street during Guy Fawkes Night.
Nicola Robison said: “The new aggravator for attacks on emergency service workers is also a welcome legislative change and should give all frontline first responders additional reassurance that their safety and wellbeing is paramount as they go about their duties.”
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