Kildare Fire Services are appealing to the public for respect after a violent attack on first responders left one firefighter injured and an emergency engine out of service.

The crew came under attack when a group threw stones, rocks, and other projectiles at the vehicle, shattering a window and injuring a staff member. The damage forced the engine off the road for repairs during the peak Halloween rush.

‘This is not just damage to a fire engine. This is an attack on the very people who are there to protect our communities,’ the fire service said in a statement.

‘Our firefighters respond to emergency calls to protect lives, homes and property within the communities of County Kildare and should never have to fear for their own safety while doing so.’

Officials warned that such antisocial behaviour directly threatens public safety by pulling essential crews away from active emergencies.

‘When a fire appliance is attacked, crews may be forced to withdraw from an incident to protect themselves,’ the statement noted. ‘We ask communities to consider that the next emergency call could be to your home, your family or someone you love.’

While noting that the vast majority of local residents support first responders, the service urged parents and guardians to speak with young people about the real-world dangers of bonfires, fireworks, and antisocial behaviour.

‘All we ask is that you allow them to do their jobs safely and return home to their families at the end of the call.’