A Glasgow politician is calling for action on pyrotechnics following a 'potentially disastrous' incident involving a Celtic fan.
James Dornan believes the Scottish FA and SPFL must do more to deal with the issue of flares and fireworks inside football grounds.
The Glasgow Cathcart constituent has called for more to be done for some time amid growing concerns over serious injury and potential loss of life.
However, last night's pyro display in the away end at Easter Road has reignited those worries.
As a result of the pyro set off by some of the travelling support, footage emerged of a Celtic fan's head alight.
In the clip, he could be seen frantically patting his hair to extinguish the fire after realising what had occurred. Green smoke could be seen coming from his head as he put it out.
Dornan believes the matter requires Scottish Government intervention.
The MSP said: "I have been asking for the issue of pyrotechnics to be taken more seriously in Scottish football grounds for some time now. Maybe this extremely unfortunate and potentially disastrous incident will shake up the footballing authorities to deal with it, although to date they’ve shown no real desire to do so.
"Hopefully the SG will accept that this is a matter that needs government intervention before we see someone suffer serious injury or potentially lose a life."
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Scottish Fire and Rescue Service also responded when approached.
They warned of the intense temperatures pyrotechnics can reach, even when extinguished.
DACO Iain Macleod is the SFRS's Head of Prevention, Protection and Preparedness. He said: “It is illegal to carry pyrotechnics, flares or fireworks into public spaces, but sadly we are seeing a small minority of reckless individuals using pyrotechnic devices at football stadiums and other events across Scotland. Not only is it illegal, but it puts spectators and players at risk of harm, particularly in crowded and confined spaces.
“Pyrotechnic devices can reach temperatures in excess of 1200 degrees and can continue to burn even when discarded. They pose a number of risks, including potentially serious injury to anyone within the vicinity of a live pyrotechnic, and a fire risk dependant on where the pyrotechnic is discharged.
“Along with our partners, we are committed to keeping communities in Scotland safe – and we would urge football fans to stay safe and not put themselves and others at risk by bringing pyrotechnics to football matches or other events.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Taking pyrotechnics into a sporting stadium is a criminal offence.
"We ask people to think of the impact it could have on those around you, particularly people with medical conditions, young children and elderly.
"We will continue to work in partnership with football clubs to prevent fans from taking pyrotechnics into grounds and to pursue those who put other fans’ safety at risk.”
The Scottish Government, SFA and Celtic have also been asked for comment.
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