Pupils from Our Lady and St Patrick’s High school have produced an educational firework safety DVD which highlights the dangers of irresponsibility when using fireworks.
The DVD will be shown in all schools leading up to Guy Fawkes on 5 November and it will also be used as a training resource by the fire brigade.
Working in partnership with Strathclyde Fire and Rescue, the pupils decided the concept of the DVD would be to show that although young people knew some information on firework safety many of pupils got basic safety questions wrong when interviewed by fellow pupils.
Head Teacher Charlie Rooney said: “Our students have once again shown their ability to highlight an important issue in a highly imaginative way. They have used their skills to develop an educational resource that highlights clearly the need to be responsible in handling fireworks. Produced by young people for young people, this will hopefully get the message of safety across. Well done to those involved.”
Pupils interviewed representatives from Strathclyde Police, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue and Trading Standards to establish their part in ensuring Guy Fawkes is a fun safe night for everyone.
Area Commander David Proctor, Strathclyde Fire & Rescue said:“This is a very busy time of year for the staff and we welcome anything that highlights the dangers of irresponsible behaviour with fireworks. The pupils have done a fantastic job producing this DVD and it will be used as a training resource when we visit schools. As always, we would ask for your co-operation in keeping yourselves and your communities safe by ensuring you and your family are aware our Firework Safety advice.”
A range of interviews from fellow pupils were recorded for the DVD to establish their knowledge of firework safety and a selection of wrong answers was then followed by a graphic of the correct answer.
Cllr Jonathan McColl, Convenor of Education said: “This is a unique piece of work having pupils highlighting the dangers of fireworks to their peers. Sadly every year people get injured through the misuse of fireworks and hopefully this new approach will help raise awareness of the potential dangers of what, when properly organised, is a fun activity.”
Every year people are injured due to irresponsible and inappropriate behaviour when dealing with fireworks. It is hoped that by showing this DVD in all schools will raise awareness of the dangers and the lasting damage this can cause to individuals and families.
