Council urges safe Halloween festivities

Appeals have been made for the public to celebrate Halloween safely in what is one of the busiest times of the year for emergency…

Appeals have been made for the public to celebrate Halloween safely in what is one of the busiest times of the year for emergency services.

Dublin City Council has asked people to report stockpiling of materials for bonfires ahead of this evening's festivities.

"Bonfires and fireworks at Halloween are extremely dangerous and cause a lot of injuries and damage," Lord Mayor of Dublin Naoise Ó Muirí said.

"Every year Dublin Fire Brigade and Ambulance Service sees hundreds of lives put at risk. Our message is to enjoy the occasion and stay away from illegal fireworks and bonfires."

Council staff have already removed nearly 1,000 tyres destined for bonfires and expect to remove a further 1,000 tonnes of material by tonight.

The council’s safety programme involves about 500 staff from Dublin Fire Brigade, waste-management services, parks, housing and local area offices. A phone number, 1800 251 500, has been provided to report stockpiles or reports can be made at dublincity.ie.

Mark Hilliard

Mark Hilliard

Mark Hilliard is a reporter with The Irish Times