"Don't fool with fireworks" was the message spelled out this week by Mr Harry Ewing MP, Under Secretary of State at the Scottish Office, when he visited a primary school in Edinburgh.
Assisted by Miss Mary Tamm, assistant to "Dr Who" in the TV series, the Minister explained to the schoolchildren how dangerous fireworks can be if misused and emphasised the firework safety code:
Keep fireworks in a closed box.
Follow the instructions carefully.
Light fireworks at arm's length.
Stand well back. Never return to a firework once it is lit.
Never throw fireworks.
Never put fireworks in your pocket.
Never fool with fireworks.
Keep pets indoors.
Although the number of firework accidents has decreased in recent years Mr Ewing saw no reason for complacency and emphasised that he would not be happy until "the figure is right down to zero."
Latest statistics show that the number of fireworks injuries in Scotland during the "Guy Fawkes" season fell from 63 in 1973 to 38 in 1975 and 22 in 1976.
Although the figure rose slightly to 24 in 1977, it included only 13 children, the lowest number ever recorded.
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