People asked not to set off fireworks during Clap for Carers applause

THE PUBLIC is being asked to refrain from using fireworks during the weekly ‘Clap for Carers’ applause following some complaints in the community.

Shetland Islands Council’s environmental health team said that fireworks can cause “unnecessary distress to animals, pets and children”.

The service said it could also lead to “unwarranted interventions” by the police or fire service.

The nationwide Clap for Carers initiative sees people hold a round of applause outside their doors at 8pm on Thursdays to celebrate NHS staff and keyworkers, although some people have started letting off fireworks.

“Thank you for supporting ‘Clap for Carers’,” the environmental health service said on Facebook.

“Following receipt of some complaints regarding the use of fireworks as part of the demonstration of public appreciation for the NHS, the environmental health service would like to remind folk that their use can cause unnecessary distress to animals, pets and children in the local area.

“It could also lead to unwarranted interventions by the police or the fire service, which would be particularly unwelcome at this time. Therefore we kindly request that the public refrain from using fireworks to celebrate ‘Clap for Carers’.