Published: Wednesday, 21st October, 2009 12:00pm

No sparks to fly this Hallowe'en

by Olga Aughey

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The dangers of Hallowe'en fireworks and bangers are only too well known but the issue still continues to raise its ugly head each year.

This week alone, Community Gardaí at Mullingar Garda Station seized a hall of over 200 "Black Cat" bangers, 180 "Roman Candles" and a large quantity of "Bad Boy" rockets.

As in previous years during the "run-up" to Halloween, Gardaí are issuing a warning about the serious dangers associated with using fireworks. Every Hallowe'en many children and young persons suffer terrible injuries caused by fireworks, including burns, loss of limbs and serious eye injuries. Most firework related injuries occur as a result of children holding onto the firework for too long.

"It should be borne in mind that the sale, possession or use of fireworks in this country is illegal and punishable by a fine or imprisonment," said a local Garda spokesperson, yet it seems that many parents are still turning a blind eye to what they erroneously see as harmless amusement.

"It should be also noted that it is illegal to possess any fireworks that may have been legally purchased outside of the jurisdiction and then brought into the State. Many of the fireworks that are offered for sale illegally here have not passed any quality control tests and are possibly defective," they said.

"The Gardaí will confiscate any fireworks found in the possession of persons and such persons are also liable to prosecution. In addition there is a specific offence under law for throwing any ignited fireworks in public places. The only exception to these laws is where a 'professional' type firework display is authorised under permit.

"Apart from the risk of injury, fireworks can cause great distress and annoyance to elderly residents," they continued. "They can set off intruder alarms, causing unnecessary extra demands on Garda resources. They can also cause great distress to family pets and animals. Finally, there always the possibility of outbreaks of fire in property if fireworks such as 'rockets' continue to burn after landing.

"We ask that parents be responsible in ensuring that their children do not cause injury to either themselves or others on Hallowe'en night. If you discover that your children have possession of bangers or fireworks, please take them to your local Garda station where they can be disposed of safely."