Waterford Gardaí are issuing stark warnings about the dangers and legal consequences of fireworks as Halloween approaches.

Garda Iain O’Byrne, speaking on Waterford Garda Watch, underlined that fireworks are both illegal and unsafe outside of licensed displays.

“It’s hard because we know that fireworks are illegal. You can’t just turn up to your local shop and buy them. But it’s been the process that’s been happening for so many years as it’s common for people to go over the border, perhaps buy fireworks, come back down to the Republic of Ireland, or know someone and you’re able to buy it.”

He stressed that it is difficult for Gardaí to respond once they have been set off.

“It’s very difficult for Garda Síochána to respond to fireworks when they’re being set off in an area, because sometimes by the time you arrive, the people who set them off are long gone and the damage has been often caused.”

The law carries heavy penalties.

“Some people might not actually realise that having a firework with intent or selling or supplying without a licence is an offence. It is an offence to ignite a firework or throw it at any person or property. It is an offence to light an unlicensed firework. The penalties are actually quite big. So it is a fine of up to €10,000 or five years imprisonment. The simple possession of a firework without a licence is also an offence liable to a fine of €10,000.”

Beyond fines and prison terms, Garda O’Byrne highlighted the very real risks fireworks pose to people, property, and animals.

“We all love to see fireworks in a controlled environment when it’s the likes of Spraoi, it’s the likes of Winterval, things like that. They’re absolutely beautiful. But it’s important for people to understand that while they do bring joy, if you’re not trained in how to use them, if it’s not a controlled environment, you can cause real risk to yourself. I mean, you could literally take the hand off yourself. You could cause real issues if you don’t know where you’re setting it off, you’re not aware of the risks. You can start fires, you can cause damage to homes. And it is distressing to dogs, to people living in the neighbourhood.”

Adults are being urged to speak with children and young people about these dangers.

“Adults in general, we should always ensure that children are aware of the very real dangers that are associated with fireworks. If you have any information relating to the illegal importation or sale of fireworks, please call the Garda station or the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111. We’re not trying to be dampeners on people enjoying Halloween.”

While Gardaí confirmed that Operation Tombola is active with patrols and checkpoints across Waterford City, Garda O’Byrne stressed that the real priority is preventing harm before it happens.

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