'Burns, toxic fumes, and explosions' - Waterford council issue warning on danger of bonfires this Halloween

Waterford City and County Council have issued a warning on the dangers of bonfires ahead of Halloween.

The Council is appealing to people to be aware of the hazards associated with bonfires and to businesses to not supply waste materials to people that do not have a valid waste collection permit. 

"Halloween is a particularly busy time for Waterford Fire Service. Last year, Waterford fire brigades attended 20 bonfires and other outdoor fires on Halloween night and the weeks leading up to it," Niall Curtin, Chief Fire Officer with Waterford Fire Service, said.

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"Bonfires have the potential to harm people with burns, inhalation of toxic fumes and injury from exploding cylinders and cannisters. In addition, every year we see community and amenity areas significantly damaged in the aftermath of such fires," he added.

Waterford Fire Service is providing some tips on having a safe and injury-free Halloween:

• Supervise children - don’t let them get too close to a fire as many Halloween costumes can easily ignite causing horrible injuries
• Move away from the area if you see items being thrown onto the bonfire
• Be careful if decorating your home. Keep lit candles away from combustible decorations.
• Examine any decorative lighting and stop using them if you see damage or notice any overheating - The lead up to Halloween is always a good time to test smoke detectors in your home

"Unfortunately, on more than one occasion we have been faced with anti-social behaviour at these fires. This behaviour has hindered fire personnel doing their jobs in a safe manner. Please allow our brigades to carry out their jobs safely. Injuries to firefighters and damage to vehicles may have an adverse impact on our ability to respond to other urgent emergencies in our community," Chief Curtin said.

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"The uncontrolled burning of waste, particularly in bonfires, is illegal and releases toxic pollutants into the air, which are known to be damaging to our health and environment. The use of accelerants on bonfires can pose a significant safety risk and threat to the public. We would urge the public to report materials being hoarded such as pallets, tyres, combustible waste or old furniture, by getting in touch with the Council’s Waste Enforcement Section," he added.

Members of public are also advised not to buy, use or supply fireworks.

Illegal fireworks may be manufactured without safety standards and can cause serious damage to users, particularly children.

Parents should monitor their children and ensure they do not play with fireworks.

Throughout the country, every year children end up tragically injured and often scarred for life, after using illegal fireworks.

To report the storage and collection of materials for bonfires call Waterford City and County Council on 0818 10 20 20.

Report fireworks to the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

For any fire emergencies over the Halloween period dial 112 / 999 and ask for the Fire Service immediately.