Gardaí are continuing to urge people not to light illegal fireworks as the Halloween period draws to a close for 2020.
Fireworks with a value of approximately €35,490 were seized by gardaí this Halloween under Operation Tombola. Two notable detections were made in Ramelton and Muff in Donegal in the past week.
Nationally, gardaí issued charges or summons in 9 incidents where fireworks were seized and there were youth referrals in a further 42 incidents.
Even though Halloween is over, An Garda Síochána would like to remind the public about the dangers posed by fireworks. “Each year, many people, including children, suffer terrible injuries caused by fireworks, including burns, loss of limbs and serious eye injuries,” the authorities warned.
“The sale, possession or use of fireworks in this country is illegal. It is also illegal to possess any fireworks that may have been legally purchased outside of the jurisdiction and then brought into the State and Gardaí will confiscate any fireworks found in the possession of persons and such persons are also liable to prosecution.
“Apart from the risk of injury, fireworks can cause great distress and annoyance to elderly residents. 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 is always the possibility of outbreaks of fires in properties if fireworks continue to burn after landing.
“Anyone with any information relating to the illegal use or sale of fireworks is asked to contact their local Garda Station or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.”