THERE has been a big rise in the number of deliberate fires in Glasgow as crews prepare for one of their busiest nights of year.

THERE has been a big rise in the number of deliberate fires in Glasgow as crews prepare for one of their busiest nights of year.

Statistics published by Strathclyde Fire and Rescue show there were a staggering 4321 fire setting incidents in Glasgow last year.

And 15% of them, 648 fires, occurred between October 1 and November 5 around bonfire night.

Fire stations with the highest number of deliberate fires included Pollok, which totalled 577, Easterhouse (525), Knightswood (473), Parkhead (446), Springburn (406), and Polmadie (360).

Many of the blazes happened in the weeks before Guy Fawkes night which culminated with firefighters facing hundreds of call outs.

Fire chiefs say the spiralling number of deliberate fires is putting lives at risk.

David Smith, deputy director of community safety at Strathclyde Fire and Rescue's Hamilton HQ today urged people to attend an organised fireworks display such as the annual event at Glasgow Green tonight.

He said: "Over the last five years we've seen a reduction in what we call secondary fires, which would include things like refuse and bonfires and tyres.

"But these types of fires increase in the run up to bonfire night.

"If fire crews are detained at a deliberate fire they can't be somewhere else where they are needed - such as a car accident where they might be needed to save somebody's life."

Fire officers have been visiting schools to educate youngsters on the dangers of playing with fire in the run up to bonfire night.

Refuse has also been cleared across the city to ensure it's not set on fire.

Despite the fact a simple sparkler can reach a temperature of up to 2000C, more than 15 times the boiling point of water and that some rockets can travel at up to 150mph, people are still injured every year.

New legislation means it illegal for retailers to sell fireworks to anyone under 18-years-old.

It is also illegal to let off fireworks between 11pm and 7am or to throw or set off fireworks in a street or a public place.

But despite annual safety warnings, Guy Fawkes night still ends in disaster for far too many families.

Mr Smith added: "We always dread this time of year because we know that someone will be needlessly injured because they have not taken some basic safety steps. Our advice would be to attend and organised display."

Community Safety Minister Fergus Ewing said: "We want to see everyone enjoying themselves. However, fireworks can only be enjoyed if they are used in a responsible and safe way.

"Although any injury caused by fireworks is unnecessary, each year in Scotland far too many people fall victim to their own carelessness, or the behavior of an irresponsible minority. Before you play with fire or fireworks, ask yourself if you could live with the potential, life-changing consequences."

Strathclyde Fire and Rescue have urged the public to report any information relating to fire setting to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.

Glasgow Green

50,000 people are expected at city display SCOTLAND'S largest organised firework display will tonight go off with a bang at Glasgow Green. The free event, featuring more than 3000 fireworks, is expected to attract 50,000 people and has been 10 months in the planning. Lord Provost Bob Winter said: "I am very much looking forward to our annual fireworks display. "It is undoubtedly one of the most-loved events on Glasgow's cultural calendar. "It really is the safest and best way to enjoy the celebrations in the city." The free spectacular will get under way at 4.30pm when the funfair opens. Radio Clyde 1 DJ George Bowie will then take to the stage at 6.30pm to begin the countdown to the touchpaper being lit. The dazzling pyrotechnic display will start at 7.30pm. Meanwhile the Drumchapel & West Winter Festival returns to Drumchapel Park tonight with a 20 minute firework display from 7pm. The free event, held between 4.45pm and 9pm, also includes a funfair and a live music programme which features Les McKeown's Legendary Bay City Rollers, Journey South, the MacDonald Brothers and S Club 3.