EMERGENCY services have teamed up to go into local secondary schools in a bid to spell out the danger of fireworks and bonfires to young people.

In the run-up to November 5, representatives from Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) have joined forces with Inverclyde Council for a safety push focused on pupils.

They have been visiting schools across the area, giving presentations on the anti-social and criminal use of fireworks and raising topics like proxy purchasing.

It's hoped the sessions will discourage young people from putting themselves and others at risk.

Craig Cracknell, a community safety advocate at SFRS, joined police constables Mary Connolly and Alan Curran at St Stephen's High to speak to pupils in S1 to S3 about reporting illegal activity and staying safe. 

Robert Carroll, depute head teacher at St Stephen's, says he was 'delighted' to welcome Scottish Fire and Rescue and Police Scotland to the school. 

He said: "Safety in school and the community is of paramount importance and the message around fire safety was clear to our S1, S2 and S3 pupils."

The young people learned about the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Act, which makes it illegal to attempt to buy fireworks for anyone under the age of 18.

Police Scotland say anyone in breach of the act will be subject to a fine of £5,000, a six-month prison term or both.

There have been concerns expressed over many years in Inverclyde about anti-social behaviour involving fireworks at this time of year.

Police have issued a stern warning to people that they run the risk of punishment if they break the law.

A spokesperson for the force said: "We will have a demanding and challenging period over the bonfire night weekend and we urge people not risk the prospect of being prosecuted."

Rodney Anderson, SFRS group commander for community safety for the local area, said the service would always recommend attending an organised fireworks display instead of arranging your own.

He said: "Bonfires have the potential to endanger nearby properties and smoke can become a nuisance to neighbours.

"Fireworks can also cause serious injury, as well as a lot of distress for people and animals.

"Anyone thinking of hosting a private event involving fire, flame or fireworks is asked to consider the risks and always follow the Firework Code to keep everyone safe."