'Be safe and sensible': An Garda Síochána Clare issue warning ahead of Halloween night

As preparations are well under way across the country for Halloween festivities, An Garda Síochána in Clare are advising people to be “safe and sensible.”

Operation Tombola is a nationwide initiative that is focusing on preventing and detecting the sale of fireworks as well as associated public order and anti-social behaviour issues during the Halloween period.

Outlining just some of the challenges that come along with this festive holiday, Gardaí wish to remind the public that it is illegal to buy, use and ignite fireworks without a license. 

As well as this, they can be dangerous and unpredictable, also causing injuries such as burns and loss of limbs. 

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Gardaí in Clare are also advising people to “stay away” from bonfires as they are hazardous and can collapse unexpectedly. 

A spokesperson noted, “You can report the gathering of items used for a bonfire to your local garda station and we will work with Clare County Council to dismantle them.” 

Continuing, they said, “Please be mindful and respectful that not everyone in our community will be participating, skip houses that have no lights on.” 

On Halloween night, children should be highly visible to road users and always be accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating. Those taking part in festivities are advised not to engage in throwing things such as eggs or flour. This is vandalism and may be classed as criminal damage. 

An Garda Síochána are also asking drivers to slow down and show extra caution while driving over Halloween as more people, including small children, will be out on the roads.

If you witness or are the victim of anti-social behaviour over this period, please report it to your garda station or through ringing 999 and your local Gardaí will respond.

If you, or a friend or someone in your group finds themselves in danger or in an emergency at any time during Halloween, please call 999/112 for assistance and that of other frontline services.