Information Bulletin
Bonfire Safety
The Environmental Health Service has been receiving a number of calls from members of the public expressing concerns about the bonfire sites around Shetland.
Officers have noted that hazardous materials have been placed on the bonfire sites around the district, including tyres, furnishings and carpets containing foams and plastics. These can release harmful fumes, which could be inhaled by people standing around the bonfire. Last year there were also incidents of butane gas canisters and pressurised aerosols containers being found on bonfire sites and these items are extremely dangerous when heated and could have caused serious injury to the public.
Whilst the Service does not wish to detract from the enjoyment of bonfire night, there are concerns that items are being dumped irresponsibly onto these sites causing a serious threat to the public’s health and safety.
Environmental Health recommends that an inspection of every bonfire be undertaken by the organisers prior to lighting to ensure that no hazardous items are present.
Environmental Health will collect hazardous items from the sites if the public or bonfire committees are concerned about safety. The service can be contacted on 01595 744800.
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