Do Not Get Your Fingers Burnt this Halloween!
18 October 2011
A new campaign seeking to reduce the number of injuries caused by fireworks has been launched by Public Safety Minister Edwin Poots and Justice Minister David Ford.
Launching the campaign, Public Safety Minister Edwin Poots said: "I want children to have a safe and enjoyable Halloween, which is why the launch of today’s fireworks safety campaign is so important. Although fireworks are entertaining and exciting, if not properly handled, they can be extremely dangerous and end in injuries, often serious ones. During each of the last five years, the highest proportions of those injured from fireworks and reporting to emergency care departments were aged under 18. It’s important that young people, in particular, are aware of the dangers of playing with fireworks irresponsibly. We don’t want to see any more of the terrible injuries we have seen in the past."
Last year the number of children under the age of 15 who suffered a firework injury was 23, comparable with 12 children in 2009 and 19 in 2007.
Justice Minister David Ford said: "Everyone who is planning to use fireworks this Halloween must obtain a licence from the Department of Justice. People should only buy fireworks from those who are registered or licensed by the department."
Chief Fire Officer, Peter Craig, Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) said: "Fireworks are a great Halloween tradition and can be enjoyed safely if people act responsibly when lighting and handling fireworks and sparklers. Always follow the manufacturer’s advice on how to light and use fireworks and sparklers correctly. Never go near a lit firework, even if it hasn’t gone off, as it could still explode and always let fireworks cool and dispose of them carefully. Never allow small children or pets to go near fireworks. Following this simple firework safety advice will ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable Halloween this year."
In support of the campaign police have warned that they will be increasing their efforts to disrupt the illegal sale and importation of fireworks and will take firm action on anti-social behaviour.
Chief Superintendent Peter Farrar said: "Most people enjoy the festivities at Halloween, but there are serious consequences associated with the misuse of fireworks. Anti-social behaviour can cause fear and distress, especially amongst older people and more vulnerable members of our community. We will be taking a robust approach to tackling the misuse of fireworks. Police will not hesitate to take action where individuals are involved in anti-social behaviour, underage drinking and street drinking. I would urge parents to make sure they know where their children are and what they are doing. Officers will target hot-spot areas of Northern Ireland and make particular efforts to disrupt the sale and importation of fireworks. We urge everyone to follow the official advice and have a safe Halloween."
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