Firework safety is at the centre of this year's Halloween campaign in Derry City & Strabane, with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) working alongside the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) to encourage the public to celebrate responsibly.

Speaking ahead of local events this week, PSNI Derry City & Strabane Inspector Cathal Pearce said: "Halloween continues to be one of the busiest times of year for emergency services, and it's not uncommon to see an increase in calls reporting a range of concerns, including anti-social behaviour and the misuse of fireworks.

"We want everyone to enjoy all of the local events taking place across the city and District over coming days, and to do so responsibly and safely. This includes considering the impact of your behaviour on others and knowing the law on fireworks, if you are planning any sort of display.

"Fireworks contain explosive materials and if misused or mishandled, can cause serious and life-changing injuries. Fireworks should only be purchased from reputable, licensed dealers who are required to keep sales records, and those purchasing fireworks must have a licence.

"The law is clear - if you possess, sell, handle or use fireworks without a licence, you could face fines of up to £5,000. "In the lead-up to Halloween, our officers will be visiting retail outlets to ensure licences are up to date and that retailers are legally compliant. We will continue to be proactive in seizing illegal fireworks and work with partners to target those involved in selling them illegally.

"Officers will be on patrol at events and in communities to help prevent anti-social behaviour and provide reassurance to local residents and businesses.

"Please be mindful, that what may seem like harmless fun to some, may actually feel like anti-social behaviour to others.

"Local police will be on patrol to help prevent anti-social behaviour and minimise disruption in communities as much as possible. If you have concerns about anti-social behaviour or the misuse of fireworks, please contact us online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency. We will act on the information you provide."

Reports can also be made online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.

Offering fire safety advice for the festivities, NIFRS Station Commander, Brian Birney said: "Halloween can be one of our busiest times of year so we want you to be fire aware and enjoy the Halloween celebrations. Fireworks are explosives that can set fire to property, the environment and clothing causing serious injury.

"Always light fireworks outside in an open space at arm's length and keep them well away from children and pets.

"Sparklers can also cause injury as they burn at fierce temperatures. Never give them to children under the age of five and wear leather gloves when using them.

"Fancy dress costumes can be highly flammable so make sure children are properly supervised and kept away from open flames. If clothing catches fire STOP, DROP and ROLL to quickly put the flames out."