Published on:
20
October 2008
The emergency services and local authorities are joining forces to clampdown on anti-social behaviour during the run-up to Bonfire Night.
The multi-agency initiative, Operation Alamo, starts on Wednesday October 29 and lasts until Bonfire Night.
Chief Superintendent Gordon Samson, head of Communities Policing, said: "Operation Alamo aims to tackle those behaving in an irresponsible or antisocial manner. Their thoughtless actions have an impact on the quality of life in our communities. We want the public to be safe and to enjoy Bonfire Night.
"We are aware that incidents involving anti-social behaviour increase on the approach to Bonfire Night and this affects our colleagues in the fire service and the local authorities."
As part of Operation Alamo local authorities will be visiting retailers to ensure that fireworks are being stored safely and are being sold legally; council officials will remove illegal bonfires, and police will be taking a zero tolerance against those caught setting off fireworks outwith the prescribed times.
Chief Superintendent Samson warned: "Those caught abusing council staff or fire personnel as they go about their duties will be dealt with robustly. It is not acceptable to abuse at anyone carrying out their responsibilities which keeps our communities safe."
Falkirk Councillor Charles MacDonald, Convener of Community Health and Safety, said; 'We want everyone to enjoy their Bonfire Night celebrations safely and ensure that local communities are not disrupted by any anti-social behaviour from a minority of individuals intent on causing disturbances.
"This includes attacking council employees removing illegally built bonfires, setting off fireworks at unsociable hours and selling illegal and unsafe fireworks, often to underage children.
"These actions will not be tolerated and action will be taken against individuals found to be breaking the law.
"At this time of year many families organise their own fireworks displays however we would always urge parents to ensure that they follow the rules when handling fireworks and never to leave their children unsupervised.
"Alternatively you can always go along to Callendar Park in Falkirk on November 5 for the council's own fireworks display."
Chief Superintendent Samson warned: "Those caught abusing council staff or fire personnel as they go about their duties will be dealt with robustly. It is not acceptable to abuse at anyone carrying out their responsibilities which keeps our communities safe."
Clackmannanshire Councillor George Matchett, Portfolio Holder for Inclusion, said: "Clackmannanshire Council strongly welcomes this partnership approach to the issues associated with Bonfire Night.
"Our officers will do everything they can to make sure that residents have fun and celebrate in a safe and pleasant environment.
"We always work closely with Central Scotland Police and Central Scotland Fire and Rescue Services and look forward to developing this partnership for the period leading up to November 5, for everyone's benefit and safety."
Stirling Councillor Jim Thomson, Portfolio Holder for Environment Services, said: "We are working closely with Central Scotland Police and Central Scotland Fire and Rescue Services to reduce the anti-social impact of fireworks and illegal bonfires on our communities.
"Fireworks are not toys but explosives and can create particular dangers for animals and young people.
"We want everyone to have fun safely and to remember November 5 for all the right reasons. We advise families to always attend professional, organised displays where possible."
Central Scotland Fire and Rescue's Service Delivery Director, Kenny Taylor, said: "We will be working closely with Central Scotland Police and our council partners to ensure that every step is taken to make bonfire night, and the surrounding days, safe for our communities.
"In recent years firefighters have been abused while carrying out their work at this time of year, this is not acceptable and will be not be tolerated. Through this partnership with the police and the councils we will ensure that fire crews have the support that they need in these situations."
Anyone with information can contact Central Scotland Police on 01786 456000 or information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.