Firework safety call as emergency services predict Halloween 'increase in preventable incidents'
Emergency services have called for the public to obey all firework safety checks and legal rules as Halloween night nears.
Although traditionally popular at this time of year, Northern Ireland has stringent rules governing who is allowed to sell, possess and use fireworks.
With the exception of indoor fireworks and sparklers, a licence is needed to buy or use skyrockets; issued by Stormont, those licences normally prohibit people from letting off fireworks between 11pm and 7am.
Meanwhile garden and display fireworks are illegal to sell to under-18s.
Breaking the laws can carry a hefty financial penalty.
Yet the police and Fire Service still expect to be busy this weekend, predicting an increase in calls about anti-social behaviour and the misuse of fireworks.
The PSNI’s Superintendent Dan McPhillips revealed the force has been touring shops around the province, making sure licences are up to date and the law is being followed.
“We’re urging everyone to use fireworks legally, safely and respectfully, being mindful of their impact on local communities, people with sensory sensitivities, and family pets,” he said. Encouraging anyone troubled by firework misuse to contact the PSNI, he said: “Local police will be on patrol to help prevent anti-social behaviour and minimise disruption. We will act on the information you provide.”
Meanwhile Fire Service station commander Ciaran Flynn said Halloween usually means “an increase in preventable incidents”.
Advising on safe firework and sparkler use, he said: “Keep them out of reach of children, wear gloves and light them from at least an arm’s length distance, and keep a bucket of water nearby to dampen them after use.”