Call to celebrate safely this Hallowe’en

"Illegal fireworks are not subject to safety standards and can often misfire"

The people of Cavan are being urged to enjoy Hallowe’en safely this year and to steer clear of illegal fireworks and unsupervised bonfires, which can cause devastating injuries.

"Illegal fireworks are not subject to safety standards and can often misfire, causing severe injuries to those handling them, and to bystanders. Every year in Ireland, injuries such as full-thickness burns, traumatic amputations, blindness, and hearing difficulties, are caused by illegal fireworks. The noise from fireworks can also be extremely distressing for vulnerable persons and for animals," said chief fire officer Noel O'Reilly.

Hallowe’en bonfires also present significant risk to safety and to properties, and the public is urged to exercise caution regarding bonfires, to ensure they are not located close to properties or beneath power lines, are not built too high, and do not contain any potentially explosive or toxic substances.

"Under no circumstances should any accelerants such as petrol be used. Fireworks should never be thrown into a bonfire," said Mr O'Reilly.

Flammable costumes

Trick-or-treaters and those in fancy dress, or parents of children dressing up, are reminded that many costumes are extremely flammable, particularly those without the CE safety mark. Hairspray is also particularly flammable.

"Be careful around any open flames such as candles or sparklers, and stay well away from bonfires. Teach children to STOP, DROP and ROLL in the event that their clothing does catch fire: STOP immediately, DROP to the ground and cover face (unless hands are on fire), ROLL over and over until the flames are extinguished," explained Mr O'Reilly of the technique.

Householders are also advised to be wary of leaving candles burning in the home, including Hallowe’en pumpkins, and to use LED alternatives where possible.

Be visible

Trick or treaters should also ensure they are visible, while motorists should slow down and be extra vigilant due to the increased number of pedestrians on the road after dark.

“Everyone enjoys Hallowe’en and all of us in the fire service, along with our Garda and ambulance colleagues, want the people of Cavan to have an enjoyable time. However, the injuries that we have seen caused by illegal fireworks or unsafe bonfires can be truly horrific and more frightening than any Halloween movie, so please exercise caution this year. With a bit of luck, the only firefighters to be seen out and about in Cavan this Halloween will be in fancy dress,” said Mr O'Reilly.

In the event of an emergency, call 999 or 112 immediately and ask for the emergency service you