ALERT: Clare public warning not to burn waste on bonfires this Halloween

Clare County Fire and Rescue Service is warning members of the public of the dangers associated with burning waste in illegal bonfires.

The warning comes in advance of the Halloween period, a time when illegal bonfires have been used to dispose of waste.

Maria Carey, Executive Engineer at Clare County Council, says burning rubbish on a bonfire is a criminal offence. “Businesses and members of the public are asked not to supply any waste material to people who do not have a valid waste collection permit. Dealing with waste material on any other basis is an offence and can result in prosecution.”

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“There are significant risks arising from such bonfires, including the illegal nature of the activity, the adverse effects on the members of the local community, not to mention the negative effects on the general environment," added Ms Carey.

Meanwhile, Clare Chief Fire Officer Adrian Kelly, has highlighted the strain that can be placed on emergency services at this time of the year.

“I would like people to be aware of the fire safety hazards that arise from illegal bonfires, where the burning of highly combustible materials may lead to serious injuries or death. Halloween is one of the busiest times of the year for the fire services and responding to bonfire callouts puts pressure on existing resources.”

Mr Kelly says members of Clare County Fire and Rescue Service have experienced anti-social behaviour on a small number of occasions when attending these fires.

"I would appeal to people to respect the role of the firefighters in this regard and let them carry out their duty in a safe manner,” he said.

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

During the mid-term break, in the period before and during Halloween, Clare County Council and Clare County Fire and Rescue Service will work with An Garda Síochána to closely monitor and note any stockpiles of bonfire material. 

“The uncontrolled burning of waste in a bonfire is an illegal, costly and dangerous practice,” said Ms Carey who added that Clare County Council endeavours to collect stockpiles of waste where possible.

If you have any concerns about material being gathered for illegal bonfires in your area, contact Clare County Council’s waste enforcement section by emailing enviroff@clarecoco.ie or by phoning 065-6846331.