Fury as fireworks directed at firefighters in six Halloween incidents

Fire service bosses have condemned anti-social behaviour after fireworks were “intentionally directed” at crews in six separate incidents on Halloween. The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) said the incidents could have had “devastating consequences”. The fireworks were directed at crews responding to calls across Kilkeel, Drumquin and Enniskillen, a spokesperson for the fire service said. They added: “We cannot emphasise enough how dangerous fireworks are, as they can result in life changing injuries if used inappropriately.

“We acknowledge these incidents were isolated to a small minority of individuals, but this anti-social behaviour could have had devastating consequences.” The spokesperson said no damage or injuries were sustained by fire crews as the service responded to dozens of reports during Halloween celebrations.

Between 6pm on Saturday and 1am on Sunday, firefighters attended a total of 89 operational incidents, the spokesperson added. They said “several” related to Halloween, including 23 involving bonfires.

Halloween celebrations have taken place across Northern Ireland over the weekend, with the biggest event being held in Londonderry on Saturday evening, the BBC reported. The NIFRS spokesperson said: “We would like to thank the public for their support throughout the Halloween evening.

“NIFRS recommends the safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending professionally organised public firework displays.”

Meanwhile in the Republic of Ireland, the Dublin Fire Brigade recorded the highest number of Halloween calls (558) in more than a decade.