Fireworks are already causing distress to many elderly Castlebar residents and pets even in advance of Halloween, according to Mayor of Castlebar and Fine Gael Town Councillor, Ger Deere.
Reporting numerous complaints of fireworks and bangers being used for dangerous pranks in advance of Halloween, Cllr Deere added: “More disturbingly, there have already been a number of incidents where bangers were lit and put through the letter-boxes in houses. This type of action effectively represents explosive devices being delivered right into people's homes and is a disaster waiting to happen.”
Cllr Deere added that while it is well-known that fireworks and bangers will always be around at the Halloween period, employing them in such a manner is not acceptable and those concerned should have more consideration.
“The fact that many of these fireworks and bangers are illegal only intensifies the problem. It is completely stupid and dangerous to be placing bangers or any other dangerous explosive compound through the letter-box of a door where it could cause any amount of damage."
Meanwhile HSE West is calling on parents and young people to be extra vigilant in relation to safety.
“Halloween is the busiest time of the year for the fire services and is also extremely hectic for ambulance and hospital services. Parents are advised to ensure their children are aware of the dangers of bonfires, and children should be accompanied to official bonfires. Bonfires are a big part of Halloween and often contain highly combustible materials that can cause respiratory problems and burns”, a HSE source warned, adding: “It is particularly important that children's fancy dress outfits do not contribute to accidents. Long outfits can sometimes cause children to trip and fall. Masks should not obscure vision, reduce hearing or interfere with normal breathing. Children should not be given sweets that may cause choking, and parents should consider offering some healthier options such as popcorn, small boxes of raisins and fruit.”
Mr. John O’Donnell, Emergency Department Consultant at University Hospital Galway,added; "Every year children end up tragically injured and often scarred for life. We're not trying to be killjoys but we do not want anyone to be injured or killed whilst celebrating Halloween."
