This article is from page 11 of the 2011-10-25 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 11 JPG
GARDAÍ in Clare are warning that they are cracking down on the circulation of illegal fireworks in the runup to Halloween.
Every year, various quantities of fireworks are seized and while the numbers seized in Clare this year are small, gardaí are warning of the dangers associated with them.
“There have been a couple of seizures. They are dangerous,” said the Clare Garda Division’s Crime Prevention Officer, Sergeant Joe Downey.
Operation Tombola, which targets the possession, use and sale or supply of illegal fireworks, kicked off last Thursday and will continue until next Tuesday.
As part of the nationwide initiative, gardaí can take measures to prevent the use of illegal fireworks.
“Misuse of fireworks can cause great injury and distress; annoyance to older persons; can cause stress to animals and can damage property by fire,” said Sgt Downey.
It is an offence to possess fireworks with intent to sell or supply to another; to throw an ignited firework at a person or property; to ignite a firework or cause it to be ignited.
On conviction, fines of up to € 2, 500 can be imposed in the district court, and/or six months in jail. Penalties are higher in higher courts.
Sgt Downey said that parents have a role to play to ensure that fireworks do not circulate.
“If you discover that your children have bangers or fireworks, please remove them and hand them into your local Garda station,” he said.
“Know where children are at all times and be even extra vigilant at this time of year. Ensure that your children are aware of the dangers associated with fireworks.
“Stay with your children and escort them on trick or treat visits, parties or events,” he added.
He is also urging parents to ensure that pets are kept indoors on Halloween night, which is next Monday.
Precautions should also be taken when lighting bonfires and people are urged to stay a safe distance from bonfires and fireworks. “Keep dangerous substances such as oil, petrol and diesel away from fires and fireworks,” he said. “Contact the local authority if you see a bonfire being built close to buildings, trees or overhead cables. If you see materials such as pallets or tyres being hoarded in advance, ring your local authority or garda station. Do not facilitate illegal bonfires or firework displays on or near your home or property,” added Sgt Downey.