Public attitudes towards fireworks in Scotland: representative omnibus survey

Appendix B: Questionnaire

Sale of fireworks

Legislation regulates who can sell fireworks, and who they can be sold to. For most of the year fireworks can only be sold by licenced traders, with the exception of New Year, Chinese New Year, Diwali, and the three weeks before Bonfire Night, when a sales licence is not required. It is illegal to sell outdoor fireworks to anyone who is less than 18 years old, or fireworks which make a noise over 120 decibels.

Q1. Do you think there should be more control over the sale of fireworks in Scotland?

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Q2. What are your views on banning the sale of fireworks to the public in Scotland?

• Yes, I would welcome a ban on the sale of fireworks
• No, I would not welcome a ban on the sale of fireworks
• Unsure

Q3. Please tell us why you hold that view on banning the sale of fireworks to the public in Scotland?

Use of fireworks

Members of the public are able to set off fireworks on private property. During most of the year fireworks can be used between 7 am and 11 pm. On the 5th November, fireworks can be used until midnight, and on the nights of Chinese New Year, Diwali, and New Year’s Eve fireworks can be used until 1 am. It is a criminal offense to throw or cast any firework in or into any road or public place. Most public firework displays are licenced by local authorities.

Q4. Do you think there should be more control on how fireworks can be used in Scotland? This includes the times when they can be used, and where they can be used.

• Yes
• No
• Unsure

Q5. Please tell us why you think that about controlling the use of fireworks