Fire Service Appeals For Fireworks Safety

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has appealed to the public to take care when using fireworks, following statistics that showed last year was the quietest Halloween night for fire crews since 1989.

On 31 October 2012, Northern Ireland fire fighters received 183 calls and attended 133 incidents across Northern Ireland.

Kevin O’Neill, Group Commander, NIFRS, said: "Halloween night traditionally is one of the busiest nights of the year for NIFRS but I am pleased to report we have made significant progress over the last number of years in reducing the number of incidents we attend at Halloween. Indeed, last year we saw the lowest number of incidents attended since 1989 and we welcome this reduction, but there is no room for complacency. We want to see this downward trend continue.

"We want everyone in the community to enjoy themselves this Halloween but to do so safely and responsibly. Fireworks and sparklers can be dangerous and without proper supervision they can cause serious injury. We would appeal to the public, parents, young people and community leaders to always follow the Firework Code and ensure that Fireworks and sparklers are used safely and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Plan any Firework display in advance to make it both safe and enjoyable."

The Executive has released a list of precautionary measures and advice for the public, when considering the purchase and use of fireworks this Halloween:

• have a licence if you want to buy or use fireworks
• only buy fireworks marked 'BS 7114'
• never drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
• keep fireworks in a closed box when not in use and keep away from ignition sources
• follow the manufacturer’s advice on each firework and use them one at a time
• light them at arm’s length using a taper. Stand well back
• never go near a firework that has been lit, even if it hasn’t gone off - it could still explode
• never put fireworks in your pocket
• never throw fireworks
• always supervise children around fireworks
• keep pets and animals indoors – the flames and noise upset them
• never set off noisy fireworks after 11.00 pm