25/10/2023

L'Derry PSNI And NIFRS Launch Halloween Safety Initiative

Derry City & Strabane Neighbourhood and Local Policing Team officers will be on active patrols throughout Halloween to make sure people stay safe.

Announcing their Halloween safety initiative, Chief Inspector Yvonne McManus said: "Our officers will also be visiting local retailers to remind them of their obligations, and carrying out operations in areas where we suspect fireworks are being sold illegally. I would strongly encourage anyone with information about illegal fireworks supply to contact us so that we can take action.

"Most people are responsible, but we need to be considerate and mindful of others when it comes to marking Halloween. What might seem like harmless fun to some, may actually feel like anti-social behaviour to others. If you have any concerns about antisocial behaviour in your community, you can contact us on 101, or 999 in an emergency."

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) Station Commander Bryan McCaul added: "Halloween can be one of our busiest times, so we really need you to be fire aware and act responsibly.

"Fireworks are explosives that can set fire to buildings and can cause serious injury. Only ever light them outside, in an open space and well away from children. Sparklers can cause serious injury. Never give them to children under 5, and wear leather gloves when using them. Fancy dress costumes can be highly flammable so make sure children are properly supervised. If clothing catches fire STOP, DROP and ROLL to quickly put the flames out.

"Check out our website for advice on how you can stay safe from fire. That way, we can all have a happier Halloween."

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

23 October 2024
Emergency Services Urge Caution During Halloween
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) are joining forces to promote firework safety ahead of Halloween. Halloween is typically a very busy time of year for emergency services with an expected increase in calls reporting a range of concerns, particularly around the misuse of fireworks.
03 October 2013
Ministers Urge Safety This Halloween
Northern Ireland's Health and Justice Ministers have urged the public to stay safe during Halloween celebrations this year. The announcement follows a record low in the number of people injured by fireworks. Just 14 incidents were reported last year.
22 October 2024
Halloween Safety: NIFRS Urges Public To Take Precautions
As Halloween draws near, the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is reminding the public of the importance of fire safety during the festive season. With increased use of decorations, candles, and fireworks, the risk of fire can rise significantly.
24 October 2023
Public Urged To 'Take Extra Care' With Fire Hazards This Halloween
The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has urged to public to "take extra care" with fire hazards introduced at Halloween. The NIFRS said that while Halloween is a holiday to celebrate with fancy dress, trick-or-treating and fireworks, it's important to be vigilant of the potential safety risks during the spooky season.
30 October 2013
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.