Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid has welcomed a national firework and bonfire safety campaign to protect people, animals and the environment this year.
The Scottish SPCA, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police, Scotland, NHS Scotland and the Scottish Government and many other organisations have all backed the #FireworkSafety drive.
The authorities are expecting an increase in private firework and bonfire displays this year due to the likelihood that organised displays will be cancelled due to Coronavirus restrictions.
The agencies are not calling for a ban on fireworks, but simply asking people to abide by the SFRS code and knowing what to do in the event of an emergency.
Mr Duguid said: “At this time of year, many people would normally be planning to attend organised firework displays and bonfire celebrations.
“Those big local events won’t be taking place this year due to ongoing Coronavirus restrictions.
“However, it is likely that there will be more private firework displays.
“I fully support this campaign and urge people to behave responsibly and abide by the rules.
“There is clear guidance to follow from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. There are obvious dangers for anyone in the vicinity of fireworks, but this is not just about protecting people.
“Not everybody enjoys fireworks and the noise can be very distressing for many animals.
“So I would appeal to everybody to enjoy fireworks displays safely, and follow the firework code.”