As in previous years during the "run-up" to Halloween, Mayo Gardai are issuing a warning about the serious dangers associated with using fireworks.

Each year many children and young persons suffer horrific injuries caused by fireworks, including burns, loss of limbs and serious eye injuries.

It should be borne in mind by everyone that the sale, possession or use of fireworks in this country is illegal.

It should also be noted that it is illegal to possess any fireworks that may have been legally purchased outside Ireland and brought back into this country. Many of the fireworks that are offered for sale illegally here have not passed any quality control tests and are possibly defective.

An Garda Siochana 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 fireworks display is authorised under permit.

Apart from the risk of injury, fireworks can cause great distress and annoyance to elderly people. They can set off intruder alarms, causing unnecessary extra demands on Garda resources. They can also cause great distress to family pets and farm animals. Finally, there is always the possibility of outbreaks of fire in property if fireworks continue to burn after landing and a number of buildings have been destroyed in the past.

• We ask that parents be responsible in ensuring that their children do not cause injury to either themselves or others during Halloween. If you discover that your children have bangers/fireworks please confiscate them and hand then into your local Garda Station.

• Parents should be extra vigilant during this period and know where their children are at all times.

•  The Gardai in Mayo have made a number of seizures of fireworks over the past fortnight but vigilance cannot be left to the Gardai alone and parents in particular, and adults in general, should ensure that children are aware of the very real dangers associated with fireworks.

• If you have any information relating to the illegal importation/sale of fireworks please contact any Garda Station or use the Garda Confidential Line – telephone number 1800-666-111.

Sergeant Tony Cosgrove,
Crime Prevention Officer
Castlebar Garda Station.
Tel. 094-9038200.