Waterford Fire Service is urging people to take extra care this Halloween, after fire crews responded to 33 bonfires and other outdoor fires during last year’s Halloween period.

Waterford City and County Council has issued a safety warning ahead of the celebrations, highlighting the dangers of illegal bonfires, fireworks and the burning of waste materials.

Chief Fire Officer Niall Curtin says Halloween is one of the busiest periods of the year for local fire crews.

Last year, Waterford fire brigades attended 33 bonfires and other outdoor fires on Halloween night and in the weeks leading up to it.

Mr Curtin warned that bonfires can cause serious injuries through burns, toxic smoke and exploding cylinders or canisters.

He also highlighted the damage caused to public spaces and community facilities, with some areas left badly affected by fires.

The Fire Service is advising parents to supervise children around bonfires, particularly as many Halloween costumes can catch fire easily.

People are also being encouraged to stay away from smoke and leave the area if dangerous materials are being thrown onto a fire.

Mr Curtin raised concerns about anti-social behaviour directed towards emergency crews attending incidents.

He said firefighters have previously faced situations where their ability to work safely has been affected.

Injuries to firefighters or damage to emergency vehicles could also affect the Fire Service’s ability to respond to other emergencies.

Meanwhile, Waterford City and County Council is calling on businesses and members of the public not to supply waste materials to anyone without a valid waste collection permit.

Niall Kane, Senior Executive Engineer with the Council’s Environment Department, warned that burning waste in bonfires is illegal and can release harmful pollutants into the air.

He said the use of accelerants on bonfires presents an additional danger to public safety.

The Council is encouraging people to report the stockpiling of materials such as wooden pallets, tyres, old furniture and other combustible waste.

There is also a warning about illegal fireworks, which can cause serious injuries, particularly to children.

Parents are being urged to ensure children do not handle or play with fireworks.

Householders are also advised to check smoke alarms, inspect Halloween decorative lighting for damage and keep candles away from flammable decorations.

Anyone wishing to report materials being gathered for bonfires can contact Waterford City and County Council on 0818 10 20 20.

Information about illegal fireworks can be reported to the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

In the event of a fire emergency, members of the public should call 112 or 999 and ask for the Fire Service.