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20/10/2022
Emergency Services Issue Halloween Safety Advice
The PSNI and Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) have issued a community safety message in the lead up to Halloween, one of the busiest times of the year for emergency services.
PSNI Superintendent Gerry McGrath says that while Halloween should be a safe and enjoyable time for everyone, it is not uncommon to see an increase in calls to police and other emergency services.
Superintendent McGrath continued: "Most people are responsible, but we need to be considerate and mindful of others when it comes to marking Halloween. Remember, what might seem like harmless fun to some, may actually feel like anti-social behaviour to others.
"Please don't be alarmed if you see more police in the community this Halloween - we will be there to ensure everyone is enjoying their Halloween.
"If you have any concerns about antisocial behaviour in your community, you can contact us on 101 or 999 in an emergency."
Dave McComiskey, Assistant Group Commander, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, also said: "We want to see everyone enjoy Halloween, but unfortunately each year we witness first-hand the devastating impact the misuse of fireworks and sparklers can have. They are a fire hazard and can set fire to property, the environment and clothing.
"The explosive force of a firework can also cause serious injury particularly to your hands and face. If you do decide to use fireworks then only light them outside in an open space and keep children well away from them.
"Fancy dress costumes can be highly flammable so keep them away from fireworks or open flames. Swap out candles for battery operated lights. If a costume catches fire remember STOP, DROP and ROLL to quickly put the flames out.
"If using sparklers, never give them to children under the age of five, and always wear gloves, preferably leather ones. Always supervise children when lighting sparklers, and ensure they hold the sparkler at arm's length."
By following this simple advice, you can make sure your family and friends have a safe and injury-free Halloween this year.
PSNI Superintendent Gerry McGrath says that while Halloween should be a safe and enjoyable time for everyone, it is not uncommon to see an increase in calls to police and other emergency services.
Superintendent McGrath continued: "Most people are responsible, but we need to be considerate and mindful of others when it comes to marking Halloween. Remember, what might seem like harmless fun to some, may actually feel like anti-social behaviour to others.
"Please don't be alarmed if you see more police in the community this Halloween - we will be there to ensure everyone is enjoying their Halloween.
"If you have any concerns about antisocial behaviour in your community, you can contact us on 101 or 999 in an emergency."
Dave McComiskey, Assistant Group Commander, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, also said: "We want to see everyone enjoy Halloween, but unfortunately each year we witness first-hand the devastating impact the misuse of fireworks and sparklers can have. They are a fire hazard and can set fire to property, the environment and clothing.
"The explosive force of a firework can also cause serious injury particularly to your hands and face. If you do decide to use fireworks then only light them outside in an open space and keep children well away from them.
"Fancy dress costumes can be highly flammable so keep them away from fireworks or open flames. Swap out candles for battery operated lights. If a costume catches fire remember STOP, DROP and ROLL to quickly put the flames out.
"If using sparklers, never give them to children under the age of five, and always wear gloves, preferably leather ones. Always supervise children when lighting sparklers, and ensure they hold the sparkler at arm's length."
By following this simple advice, you can make sure your family and friends have a safe and injury-free Halloween this year.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
