Gardaí have launched their annual Halloween safety campaign as Operation Tombola returns to tackle illegal fireworks and antisocial behavior during festivities. The operation, which has seized over €225,000 worth of explosives in the past decade, aims to ensure public safety during what is traditionally one of the busiest nights for emergency services.
Dublin Fire Brigade is preparing for its most demanding night of the year, having handled 250 fire-related calls and 390 ambulance calls during last Halloween. Assistant Chief Fire Officer Greg O’Dwyer warned of the severe dangers posed by illegal fireworks, which can cause “life-changing injuries” including facial disfigurement and hand trauma.
“Fireworks are illegal for a reason,” O’Dwyer told RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, highlighting cases where devices have detonated prematurely or spontaneously due to friction. “They’ve even gone off in peoples’ pockets without ignition.”
Superintendent Ann-Marie Twomey emphasized that while celebrating Halloween is encouraged, it shouldn’t come at the cost of public safety. Gardaí have issued guidelines for safe trick-or-treating and reminded the public that throwing fireworks in public places constitutes a criminal offense.
According to The Irish Examiner, authorities are urging drivers to exercise extra caution over the next 48 hours as more pedestrians, particularly children, will be out on the streets. The public is advised to call 999/112 immediately if they encounter any emergencies during the festivities.