NEW rules covering the use of fireworks have come into force.

It is now illegal to set off fireworks before 6pm and after 11pm. This extends to midnight on November 5 and 1am on Hogmanay, Chinese New Year and Diwali.

During the bonfire season, 85 per cent of all firework injuries treated at emergency departments happen at informal private displays. More than half of those requiring treatment are children.

The Scottish Government is raising awareness of the new regulations so that if you plan on having your own private firework display this year, you know the rules and how to keep you and your family safe:

Keep a safe distance – not all fireworks are suitable for private use; it depends on size of your garden/area.

Follow the fireworks code – eg stand well back, never return to a firework before it’s been lit and read instructions before use.

Think of others – remember that for some of your neighbours, fireworks can be particularly distressing and frightening due to the loud and sudden noise and pets could also be distressed. Let your neighbours know when you might be setting fireworks off.

If there is a local firework display taking place, think about going to it instead of holding your own private one.

Visit www.firescotland.gov.uk for more information on fireworks safety.

Minister for community safety Ash Denham said: “The Scottish Government’s ambition is for all of Scotland’s communities to be safe places for everyone to live, work and enjoy. We all have a part to play in making that vision a reality.

“Fireworks can be hugely damaging and distressing and that is why it is now illegal for the general public to set off fireworks before 6pm and after 11pm.

"This is an important step forward in tackling the misuse of fireworks and I encourage anyone who witnesses or has information about criminality relating to fireworks to report it so that action can be taken to prevent further harm to our communities.”