An anti-fireworks campaigner says more must be done to stamp down on misuse as new legislation was passed.
Jane Kerr, 51, fears the new Bill, which will create a licensing scheme and limit the number of days when fireworks can be sold, will encourage some to stockpile them.
The Helensburgh dog owner began campaigning against the public use of fireworks after becoming sick of seeing her pet terrified by them.
She has previously told how she has to use a vet approved sedative to calm 14-year-old Bonnie, who has a heart murmur.
The Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill was passed by MSPs at the end of June, with community safety minister Ash Regan insisting the changes would play a “key part in reducing the harm, the distress and the injury” that can be caused.
The Bill will only allow the explosives to be bought and used by members of the public at certain times of the year, including Guy Fawkes Day, Hogmanay, Chinese New Year and Diwali.
It will also mean members of the public must have a licence to buy and use certain fireworks, and it will become an offence to give fireworks to or buy them for a child.
Jane, who organised a Pets Against Fireworks protest event at Levengrove Park several years ago, says the loud noises leave her fearing for Bonnie’s life every year.
She fears people will start stockpiling fireworks as a result of the legislation, explaining: “There is a real chance that could happen because people might see it as their only opportunity to buy them, and there is a good chance people could stockpile them.
“That needs to be looked at by perhaps introducing a limit on how many people can buy in one go.
“We still have a long way to go until we are at a place that it’s suitable for everyone.
“More needs to be done because Joe Public can still go out and buy fireworks.
“Some people want a complete ban on fireworks, and that is not what I am asking for because they do give a great deal of pleasure to families.
“It is the unpredictability that makes it a warzone.”
Jackie Baillie, Dumbarton constituency MSP, said: “While I ultimately supported this bill in the Scottish Parliament, many in the chamber acknowledged that it did not go far enough. Unfortunately attempts to improve the bill were rebuffed by the Scottish Government.
“The Scottish Government must ensure that there is clear guidance for retailers as well as members of the public. Meanwhile, emergency services must be supported in the enforcement of the bill otherwise the bill will do little to address the problems associated with fireworks.”
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “The measures in the Bill have been carefully considered to strike the right balance between introducing restrictions that ensure public safety, while having robust checks and balances in place to protect against potential unintended consequences, including stockpiling.
“The passage of the Bill saw extensive consultation with the legislation receiving strong support from the public and a range of stakeholders, including a coalition of professional medical bodies.”
