PSNI and NIFRS urge Halloween firework safety to prevent accidents and anti-social behaviour

PSNI Superintendent Finola Dornan and NIFRS Station Commander Graham Parker.

As Halloween approaches, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) have joined forces to remind the public that fireworks are not toys — and misuse can lead to serious injuries, criminal charges, or worse.

The annual safety campaign highlights the importance of celebrating responsibly during one of the busiest times of year for emergency services, which traditionally see a spike in calls relating to anti-social behaviour and the improper use of fireworks.

Superintendent Finola Dornan of the PSNI said:

“We want everyone to stay safe this Halloween and enjoy the celebrations responsibly. Fireworks contain explosive materials and, if misused, can cause serious and life-changing injuries.

“We’re urging everyone to use fireworks legally, safely and respectfully, being mindful of their impact on local communities, people with sensory sensitivities, and family pets.”

She stressed that fireworks must only be purchased from licensed dealers, who are required by law to maintain proper sales records.

“The law is clear that fireworks, except indoor fireworks and sparklers, must be bought from reputable, licensed dealers who are required to keep sales records. It is illegal to possess, sell, handle or use fireworks without a licence, and those who break the law could face fines of up to £5,000.”

Police are carrying out compliance visits to shops across Northern Ireland to ensure all licences are up to date. Officers are also working closely with partner agencies to identify and recover illegal fireworks and to target those involved in their sale.

“Local police will be on patrol to help prevent anti-social behaviour and minimise disruption in communities as much as possible,” Superintendent Dornan added.

“If you have concerns about anti-social behaviour or the misuse of fireworks, please contact us online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency. We will act on the information you provide.”

‘Plan ahead, stay alert and put safety first’

NIFRS Station Commander Graham Parker echoed the call for caution, noting that Halloween often brings a rise in preventable fires and accidents.

“Halloween is a fantastic time of year for everyone to come together and celebrate. However, it’s also a time when we see an increase in preventable accidents.

“The misuse of fireworks, sparklers and candles can have a devastating impact, setting fire to property, the environment and clothing. We want everyone to enjoy their Halloween celebrations safely by planning ahead, staying alert and putting safety first.”

He reminded families that fireworks and sparklers burn at extremely high temperatures and should always be handled carefully:

“Always keep them out of reach of children and pets, and be sure to follow the firework safety code. Wear gloves and light them from at least an arm’s length distance and keep a bucket of water nearby to dampen them after use.”

With many Halloween costumes made from flammable materials, Parker also urged people to take precautions around naked flames.

“A simple way to reduce risk is to swap real candles for battery-operated ones, especially in pumpkins and decorations, and to choose costumes made from flame-resistant materials. Make sure you know what to do if your own or a child’s costume catches fire. The STOP, DROP and ROLL technique can help extinguish flames quickly and prevent serious injuries.”

Key Halloween Safety Reminders

• Be mindful that not everyone in your community celebrates Halloween.

• Vandalism, including throwing eggs or flour, may be treated as criminal damage.

• Children should be accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating and only visit homes of people who are happy to take part.

• A licence is required for fireworks, except for indoor fireworks and sparklers.

• Only purchase fireworks from reputable, licensed dealers — never from market stalls or door-to-door sellers.

• It is illegal to possess, purchase, sell, handle or use fireworks without a licence.

• Only adults should light or handle fireworks.

• Never return to a lit firework, even if it appears to have failed.

• Always stand well back when watching fireworks.

• It is an offence to throw fireworks in the street or public places.

• Supervise children around fireworks and sparklers, and never give sparklers to children under five.

• Light sparklers one at a time and always wear gloves.

• Keep a bucket of water nearby and place used sparklers in it.

• Remember: breaking fireworks laws can lead to fines of up to £5,000.

For more information about fireworks licensing, visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/fireworks.