NIFRS issues Halloween safety advice

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is calling for everyone to take extra care with fire hazards this Halloween.

While Halloween is typically a holiday to celebrate with fancy dress, trick-or-treating and fireworks, it is important to be vigilant of the potential safety risks during the spooky season.

October is a particularly busy time of year for emergency services and it is not uncommon to see an increase in calls reporting a range of concerns.

Last Halloween, NIFRS were called to 84 incidents, lower than the previous year where crews were called 90 times in the same 24 hour period.

NIFRS Assistant Group Commander Karen McDowell has issued this advice:

“Halloween can be one of the busiest times of year for us and we are urging everyone in our community to act responsibly. We want you, along with your friends and family, to have a safe Halloween."

“We understand that you want to celebrate, however if you plan to use fireworks, sparklers or candles please follow our fire safety advice."

“Please remember that fireworks are dangerous and can set fire to buildings and clothing. The explosive force of a firework can also cause serious injury, particularly to your hands and face. Only light them outside, in an open space, and keep children and pets well away from them."

“Sparklers can also cause serious injury, especially without proper supervision, as they burn at very high temperatures. Never give them to children under the age of 5 and always wear gloves when using them."

“Fancy dress costumes can be highly flammable. If you’re making your own, don’t use flammable materials such as black plastic bags. It’s important to make sure children are properly supervised at all times and kept away from fireworks or open flames. If a costume catches fire remember STOP, DROP and ROLL to quickly put the flames out."

“We witch you all a happy Halloween and recommend reading our safety advice ahead of the festivities.”

NIFRS Halloween Safety Advice:

• It is compulsory to have a license to use fireworks.

• Only buy fireworks marked with a CE mark and read instructions carefully.

• When not in use, keep fireworks in a sealed box or tin and away from ignition sources.

• Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks.

• Always supervise children around fireworks and keep them well away from them.

• Keep pets indoors as the flames and noise upset them.

• Light fireworks at arm’s length, one at a time in an open space outside using a taper and stand well back.

• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them.

• Never go near a firework that has been lit, even if it hasn’t gone off as it could still explode.

• If making your own costume don’t use flammable materials like black plastic bags.

• STOP, DROP and ROLL if clothing catches fire to extinguish the flames and stop the flames from rising towards the face.

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