Fireworks are not toys, stresses UUP councillor

DROMORE Councillor Carol Black this week highlighted the dangers of fireworks, stressing that they were explosives and had to be treated with respect.

"Halloween is meant to be a fun time," she said, "with school holidays, parties and fireworks; children love to dress up as their favorite character and go door-to-door saying the famous ‘trick or treat'.

"It's a time that families can get together dress up and enjoy the celebrations, but unfortunately it can also be an extremely hazardous and dangerous time.

"Last year many people went to Accident and Emergency Departments because of fireworks injuries during the Halloween period; fireworks are not toys; they are explosives and need to be treated with respect."

Ms. Black said that as a local councillor she was fully supportive of the annual Fireworks Display at Banbridge's Outlet Centre, where parents and children could enjoy the event in a safe and controlled environment.

She noted too that Sgt. Paul Ferguson of Dromore police and his team would visiting local schools to highlight. the dangers.

"I would also ask everyone to look out for their pets at this time," she added. "Keep them in and safe; if your pet is frightened by loud noises, don't ignore the problem.

"You should always seek advice from your local vet, who will be only to glad to help you.