The public has been warned about the potentially “devastating impact” of fireworks and sparklers as the PSNI and Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) launched a safety campaign in the lead up to Halloween.
The PSNI also confirmed officers will be carrying out additional checks on shops across Northern Ireland to ensure fireworks sales licenses are up to date and relevant legislation is being complied with.
Just last week this newspaper reported a 12-year-old boy suffered what had been described as a “serious” injury to his eye following a firework incident in Dunmurry after being struck in the face by the device from a group of young people.
Now leading up to the celebrations, police have warned people of the dangers and potentially “life-changing injuries” misuse of the objects can cause.
PSNI Superintendent Finola Dornan said: “It is illegal to possess, sell, handle or use fireworks if you do not have a licence. And you can be fined up to £5,000 for breaking the law.
“Fireworks are made from explosive material and, if misused, can cause serious and life-changing injuries.
“For this reason, we are urging people to use fireworks legally and safely and being mindful of the damaging impact that fireworks can have on quality of life in local communities in terms of noise, fire risks and on people with sensory sensitivities and family pets.”
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Halloween is particularly demanding time of year for public services with many incidents arising surrounding the misuse of fireworks.
NIFRS Group Commander, Paul Morrow added: “We want everyone to enjoy Halloween but the misuse of fireworks and sparklers can have a devastating impact. They can set fire to property, the environment and clothing.
“The explosive force of a firework can cause serious injury particularly to your hands and face. If you are using fireworks, only light them outside in an open space at arm’s length using a taper and keep children well away from them.
“Fancy dress costumes can be highly flammable so keep them away from fireworks and 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.
“Sparklers can burn at fierce temperatures. If using sparklers, never give them to children under the age of five, and always wear gloves, preferably leather ones. Supervise children and ensure they hold the sparkler at arm’s length. When the sparkler has finished, put it into a bucket of cold water.”
Among the advice given to the public for safely enjoying the celebrations, the PSNI and NIFRS encouraged people to stand well back when watching fireworks, that only adults should light or handle firework and people should never go back to a firework once lit – even if it does not go off.
The public have also been encouraged to ensure they always supervise children around fireworks, never give sparklers to children under the age of five and that it is an offence to throw fireworks in the street or other public places.
News Catch Up – Wednesday 23 October