Halloween Fire Safety Campaign Launched

Dublin Fire Brigade's Halloween Safety Campaign, 'Be Safe Been Seen' has been launched at Dublin Fire HQ by tArdmhéara Críona Ní Dhálaigh.

The Fire Brigade will work with Dublin Bus, An Garda Siochana and the DSPCA in an effort to inform young people about the dangers of illegal bonfires and fireworks. The campaign is part of Dublin City Council's Halloween Response Programme which includes a programme of family-friendly community events and a preventive programme of removing stockpiled bonfire materials.

An tArdmhéara Críona Ní Dhálaigh said: "I want to encourage everyone to enjoy Halloween safely this year. Each year we see the trauma suffered by families through injuries caused by illegal bonfires and fireworks. These illegal activities can have devastating and life changing consequences.

"Dublin City Council organises safe, family friendly events in communities all over the city and I encourage everybody to act sensibly and come along and enjoy these events in a safe environment."

Pat Flemming, Chief Fire Officer, Dublin Fire Brigade added: "Halloween night is one of the busiest nights of the year for Dublin Fire Brigade. I would advise people to exercise common sense. Adults in particular are requested to keep a watchful eye on the very young, the very old, and the vulnerable members of our society. I would call on all parents to remind their children that Fire fighters and other Emergency Service personnel are there to protect them and their property and ensure the safety of the public. It is a fun night and should be enjoyed by all. Keep Children away from bonfires, keep bonfires away from buildings, keep away from illegal fireworks, keep it organised, keep it fun and most of all keep it safe"

Dublin Fire Brigades main message this Halloween:

• Dublin Fire Brigade and Dublin City Council are encouraging people to attend organized events in their local area which are supervised and which provide entertainment for all.

• Bonfires and fireworks are illegal and extremely dangerous and cause a lot of injuries and damage.  Stay a safe distance from bonfires and fireworks – wind can carry sparks long distances and cause permanent injuries and scars.

• Do not buy, use or supply fireworks.

• Respect the Emergency Services, Council staff and the Gardaí in doing their jobs 

• Keep pets indoors on Halloween night.

• Dublin City Council is asking citizens to assist them by reporting any issues regarding the storage or distribution of bonfire material to: Dublin City Council's Litter Hotline on 1800 251 500 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm), the Environmental Protection Agency's 24 hour National Environmental Complaints Line at 1850 365 121, log onto our website ie , click on the link 'Report Stockpiling of Bonfire Material', email customerservices@dublincity.ie

(MH/CD)