Minister warns of dangers of fireworks

Health Minister Paul Goggins has today issued a warning on the dangers of fireworks in the run up to Halloween.

Speaking at the Children's A&E Department at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, the Minister said: "Halloween is meant to be a time of fun, with school holidays, parties and fireworks. But unfortunately, it can also be an extremely hazardous and dangerous time. Last year 86 people attended Accident and Emergency Departments in Northern Ireland because of fireworks injuries during the Halloween period.”

He continued: "The majority of those hurt were young people, and some of their injuries were horrific. I have seen very graphic evidence today including the loss of fingers and permanent scarring to the face. People run the risk of serious burns, permanent scars and sight loss, by not handling fireworks correctly.

"I would remind everyone, especially parents, that fireworks are explosives not toys, they are dangerous and need to be handled with care."

Dr Brigette Bartholome, consultant in paediatric emergency medicine, supported the Minister's comments and said: "Children should be taught never to pick up fireworks that have not gone off. This is one of the most common causes of injuries that we see in our emergency department."

Janice Bisp, Head of Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents Northern Ireland, also supported the Minister's comments today saying: "I would especially warn parents not to give sparklers to children under the age of five. Small children tend to reach for the sparkly end causing deep burns to palms and long-lasting injuries. The safest place to enjoy fireworks is at a properly organised public display but if you must have a party at home be sure to follow the firework code to the letter."

The amended Explosives (Fireworks) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2002 were introduced in May 2002 and made it compulsory for anyone wishing to purchase, possess and use fireworks for a garden display to obtain a licence. The fee for a fireworks licence, where the number of spectators is less than 100, is £30, however the closing date for licence application forms has now passed.

People using fireworks are advised to do the following:

• Only buy fireworks marked BS 7114



• Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks



• Keep fireworks in a closed box



• Follow the instructions on each firework



• Light them at arm's length - using a taper and stand well back



• Never go near a firework that has been lit - even if it hasn't gone off, it could still explode



• Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them



• Always supervise children around fireworks



• Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves



• Never give sparklers to a child under five



• Keep pets indoors

(EF/KMcA)