Fireworks, sparklers and costumes - Derry public warned to follow key tips to stay safe this spooky season

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has urged the public to take extra care and follow key fire safety advice this Halloween. 

The NIFRS has warned people that the risk of fire can rise significantly during the Halloween period due to decorations, candles and fireworks being used.

The NIFRS has emphasised the importance of staying alert and has encouraged everyone to take simple, proactive steps to reduce the risk of fire this Halloween.

Paul Morrow, NIFRS Group Commander, said: "We’re calling on everyone in the community to stay vigilant and act responsibly so that you enjoy Halloween safely.

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Fireworks

Commenting on the use of fireworks this spooky season, Paul Morrow said: "It’s crucial to remember that fireworks are extremely dangerous and can set fire to buildings, clothing and cause serious damage to the face and hands if used irresponsibly."

If people are going to use fireworks this Halloween, the NIFRS has advised to only buy fireworks marked with a CE mark and read instructions carefully. When they are not in use, the fireworks should be in a sealed box or tin and away from ignition sources.

It is important to remember that alcohol and fireworks do not mix, so make sure that whoever is in charge of setting off the fireworks is not drinking alcohol.

Of course, children should always be supervised when around fireworks and should be kept well away from them. 

Fireworks can frighten animals and so people are urged to keep their pets indoors this Halloween.

If you're setting off fireworks this Halloween, always light them at arm's length, one at a time in an open space outside using a taper and stand well back.  You also should never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them and never go near a firework that has been lit, even if it hasn’t gone off as it could still explode.

Also, in case you weren't aware, it is is compulsory to have a license to use fireworks. 

Sparklers

Sparklers are often used during Halloween especially by children, however, Paul Morrow warned: "Sparklers may seem harmless, but they burn at extremely high temperatures and can cause serious burns." 

Indeed, the NIFRS say that to a young child, the heat from a sparkler is equivalent to a welding torch. It is important that children are supervised with sparklers and that they are not to be given to children under the age of 5. 

People are advised not to bring sparklers to public displays and to never hold a child with a sparkler in your hand.

When lighting sparklers people are reminded to hold them at arm’s length, light them one at a time and wear gloves, preferably leather ones.

They should be stored in a closed box in cool, dry place. And when burnt out, plunge the hot end of the sparkler down into a bucket of water.

Costumes

Although most of us will think of the dangers posed by fireworks and sparklers over Halloween, some might not realise that costumes can also come with some safety risks. Paul Morrow reminds people: "Fancy dress costumes can be highly flammable."

People are advised to opt for costumes made from fire-retardant materials and avoid long, trailing fabrics. The NIFRS also advise to make sure costumes and masks don’t restrict you or your child’s vision, and to wear woollen tights or heavy trousers and a woollen jumper under your costume.

If making your own costume, don’t use flammable materials like black plastic bags.

The NIFRS also remind people to ensure that children are supervised at all times and kept away from open flames.

One important thing to remember this Halloween is the STOP, DROP and ROLL technique. This technique is to be used if clothing catches fire to extinguish the flames and stop the flames from rising towards the face.

The NIFRS has asked people to consider these Halloween safety tips, with Paul Morrow adding: "We hope your Halloween is a scream – just make sure to follow our safety advice to keep things from getting too scary."