Council issues Halloween safety advice

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is urging residents who plan to use fireworks this Halloween to follow the Fireworks Code to reduce the risk of personal injury.

Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Howard Thornton, said:

“The Council wishes to promote firework safety and has organised spectacular fireworks displays in Enniskillen and Omagh on Halloween night to be enjoyed by thousands of spectators.

While we hope these displays will discourage the unauthorised use of fireworks, which are dangerous if not properly controlled, we understand that a number of authorised private fireworks displays will take place across the district this Halloween.

We hope everyone in the district has a safe and enjoyable Halloween and would like to remind those that plan to use fireworks to follow the Fireworks Code and ensure that they have the necessary licence in place.”

Further information on how to apply for a licence and details of the local registered retailers for fireworks can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/fireworks.

The Fireworks Code advises the following:

• Fireworks should not be sold to any person under the age of 18
• Only buy fireworks marked with a CE mark – this shows the firework meets European safety standards
• Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
•  Keep fireworks in a closed metal box
• Follow the instructions on each firework
• Light fireworks at arm’s length, using a taper
• Stand well back
• Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode
• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
• Always supervise children around fireworks
• Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
• Never give sparklers to a child under five years old
• Keep pets indoors
• Don’t set off noisy fireworks late at night and never after 11.00 pm

Residents are also being advised to shop for Halloween costumes with safety in mind.

Halloween is all about dressing up but when choosing costumes always check for a CE mark, instructions and safety information.

To minimise the risk of contact with candles or other sources of ignition, be extra cautious and vigilant with costumes made with flimsy materials and outfits with big, baggy sleeves or billowing skirts.

Don’t let children use naked flames – use LED lights instead of candles.