RoSPA Press Office : Press Release

October 6, 2003
SAFETY COUNTDOWN TO HALLOWEEN IN NORTHERN IRELAND

The countdown has begun to Northern Ireland’s Halloween celebrations - and people planning firework parties are urged to visit RoSPA’s new website www.saferfireworks.com as soon as possible.

The site has a “ready..steady…go!” section advising people about what action they need to take as each week passes on the way to the big night.

It is hoped the initiative, undertaken jointly with Home Accident Prevention NI, will lead to a reduction in firework injuries throughout the province.

Last year 38 people were injured by fireworks in Northern Ireland over the Halloween period. Nearly 75 per cent of these were males, and most were under 20 years-old.

Victoria Dunn, Project Officer for RoSPA, said: “Planning is an essential part of having a successful and safe fireworks party. The website has a handy checklist for organisers, which should help to ensure displays go without a hitch and no one is hurt.

“It is important that people understand the licensing regulations which were brought in last year as fines of up to £5000 can be imposed for breaking the law.”

As well as the “ready…steady…go!” section, visitors to www.saferfireworks.com will find detailed information about how to organise a successful display. Other topics include buying fireworks, setting up a firing sequence, safety equipment needed, statistics, the law and what to do if something goes wrong.

“We must emphasise that the safest place to enjoy fireworks is still at a properly organised public display,” Victoria Dunn said. “Your local council can tell you if there is one in your area.”

Always buy fireworks from an authorised retailer. Fireworks bought from market stalls or unlicensed premises could be dangerous and might not conform to British Standard. Anyone suspecting a retailer is selling fireworks illegally, should contact contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.