Have some spooky, but safe, fun; this is the message from the HSE West this Halloween as fireworks, bonfires, costumes and even boiled sweets can cause an injury to your little ghoul.
The HSE is calling on parents and young people to be extra vigilant in relation to safety during the Halloween period. The HSE warn that illegal fireworks and bangers are mostly on sale in markets and from street traders throughout the country and are liable to be sub-standard and cause injury.
Bonfires are also a big part of Halloween and can often contain highly combustible materials that can cause respiratory problems and burns. According to the HSE, this time of year is the busiest for the fire services and extremely hectic for ambulance and hospital services.
Parents are also advised to ensure that their children are accompanied whilst visiting houses during trick or treat and that their fancy dress outfits do not contribute to accidents. Long outfits can sometimes cause children to trip and fall and masks can obscure vision, reduce hearing, or interfere with normal breathing.
Dr Melissa Canny, Department of Public Health, HSE West says, "Illegal fireworks are manufactured without safety standards and can cause serious injuries. Parents should ensure their children do not play with fireworks or bangers. Every year children sustain injuries and may be scarred for life as a result. Bonfires are also another cause for concern and we would urge parents to make sure that their children do not attend unsupervised bonfires. Parents should also be aware that nuts and boiled sweets may cause obstruction and choking and should check their child’s goodie bags. We're not trying to be killjoys but we do not want anyone to be injured or killed whilst celebrating Halloween."
