Stay safe this Halloween

Last Halloween, NIFRS attended the lowest number of incidents in 22 years - 197 calls handled and 145 incidents attended - and the majority of incidents attended by Firefighters were to deal with fires involving rubbish, tyres and out-of-control bonfires.

Kevin O’Neill, Group Commander, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) said: “Although Halloween continues to be a very busy night for our Firefighters across Northern Ireland, we have made good progress over the past five years in reducing the number of incidents we attend at Halloween. Indeed, last year we seen the lowest number of incidents attended since 1989 and we welcome this reduction, but there is no room for complacency. We want to see this downward trend continue.

“We want everyone to enjoy themselves this Halloween but to do so safely and responsibly. Remember Firefighters are not out to spoil anyone’s fun and Fire Crews in your area are there to protect life, protect property and keep you safe.

“I am appealing to young people, parents and community leaders to always follow the Fireworks Code and ensure that Fireworks and sparklers are used safely and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Think safety first and plan any Firework display in advance to make it both safe and enjoyable.”