Rather than let a fun night end in disaster, our Bonfire removal squads will be out and about in the run up to events taking place across South Lanarkshire this weekend, removing bonfires located on council owned land.

And the council also works closely with the fire service and local partner agencies to raise awareness of the risks and dangers associated with bonfires and fireworks.

So, our dedicated bonfire ‘hit squad’ are now set up in all four areas across South Lanarkshire to safely dismantle and remove unauthorised bonfires being built on council land.

And as well as the public letting us know of hazardous sites, council workers out in the community and our Community Wardens mobile CCTV van will also be on the lookout for potential problems for the ‘hit squads’ to tackle with known hot spots being closely monitored right up to Bonfire Night itself.

Councillor Robert Brown, the chair of the council’s Community and Enterprise Resources Committee, said: “We all enjoy Bonfire Night and all the fun that goes along with it every year.

“But nobody wants a fun night out to end in tears with someone being injured or even killed.

“Removing unauthorised bonfires is not designed to spoil anyone’s fun. Our crews do this to help ensure everyone’s safety so please help us by reporting any bonfires that are being set up on council land in your communities.”

Anyone with any concerns are asked to Report a bonfire during office hours to ring 0303 123 1020 (Monday to Thursday 8.45am – 4.45 pm and Friday 8.45am – 4.15pm) or outwith these hours to contact our 24-hour hotline on 0800 242024 and our bonfire hit squads will investigate.

Councillor Brown added: “We urge everyone to attend only well organised, official bonfire events where you know you can enjoy the bonfires and fireworks safely and enjoyably.”

Bonfire Night events in Lanarkshire