The use of pyrotechnics in Scottish football stadiums has become a serious issue that threatens the safety and enjoyment of the game. Flares, fireworks and smoke bombs have been set off by fans of various clubs, causing disruption, damage and potential harm to players and spectators. In this article, we will explore how education can be the answer to this growing problem, and what steps are being taken to address it.
The dangers of pyrotechnics
Pyrotechnics are not only illegal, but also extremely dangerous. They can cause burns, injuries, fires, smoke inhalation and even death. According to Police Scotland, it is “only a matter of time” before someone is killed by a pyrotechnic at a Scottish football match. They also pose a risk to the stadium infrastructure, the pitch and the emergency services.
Pyrotechnics can also have a negative impact on the reputation and finances of the clubs and the league. They can lead to fines, sanctions, bans and loss of sponsorship. For example, Celtic were fined £12,900 by UEFA in 2019 for setting off flares during a Europa League match against Cluj. Rangers were also fined £8,000 by the SPFL for a similar offence in a match against St Mirren in 2018.
The role of education
Many experts and stakeholders agree that education is the key to tackling the pyro problem in Scottish football. They believe that fans need to be made aware of the consequences of their actions, and the harm they cause to themselves and others. They also need to be encouraged to respect the game, the clubs and the authorities.
One of the initiatives that aims to educate fans about the dangers of pyrotechnics is the Pyro Safety Awareness Programme (PSAP), which was launched by the Scottish FA in 2019. The PSAP is a voluntary scheme that offers fans who have been caught with pyrotechnics the opportunity to attend a workshop instead of facing prosecution. The workshop covers topics such as the legal, medical and social aspects of pyrotechnics, and the impact they have on the game and the community.
The PSAP has been praised by the Football Safety Officers Association, Police Scotland and the Scottish government as a positive and proactive approach to the issue. According to the Scottish FA, more than 90% of the participants have said that they would not use pyrotechnics again after attending the workshop.
Another initiative that aims to educate fans is the No Pyro, No Party campaign, which was launched by the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) in 2018. The campaign features videos and posters that highlight the dangers and penalties of using pyrotechnics, and urge fans to enjoy the game without them. The campaign also involves the collaboration of the clubs, the players, the media and the supporters’ groups to spread the message and raise awareness.
The No Pyro, No Party campaign has been supported by many prominent figures in Scottish football, such as former Celtic manager Neil Lennon, former Rangers captain Lee Wallace, and former Scotland manager Alex McLeish. The campaign has also received positive feedback from the fans, who have said that they appreciate the respectful and informative tone of the campaign, and that they understand the need to protect the game and the fans.
The challenges and the future
Despite the efforts of education and awareness, the pyro problem in Scottish football is not yet solved. There are still some fans who persist in using pyrotechnics, either out of ignorance, defiance or peer pressure. There are also some challenges in enforcing the law and preventing the smuggling of pyrotechnics into the stadiums.
Therefore, education needs to be complemented by other measures, such as increased security, improved detection, stricter sanctions and better cooperation. The authorities, the clubs, the fans and the media all have a role to play in ensuring that pyrotechnics are eradicated from Scottish football, and that the game is enjoyed in a safe and respectful manner.
Education is the answer, but not the only answer, to the pyro problem in Scottish football.
