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Council issues Halloween bonfire warning 21.10.14

DONEGAL County Council has cautioned people about the dangers of Halloween bonfires and fireworks. The council said while it wanted people to enjoy the fun of the festivities, it warned that bonfires are illegal. It said bonfires built close to houses and other property can expose people to toxic fumes and "can cause serious damage and injuries particularly where the burning of highly combustible materials is taking place".
Environmental awareness officer Suzanne Bogan said: “It is an offence to supply waste materials to parties collecting for 'bonfire night’ and it is illegal to give waste to a person that does not have a waste collection permit.
“Donegal County Council is currently monitoring a number of locations were waste materials have been supplied as bonfire material over the past number of years and we are undertaking an audit of certain businesses to ensure that there is compliance under the relevant legislation and to ensure that waste materials are not supplied for burning on bonfires."
Meanwhile, the council reminded people that fireworks are also illegal in Ireland. "Members of the public are asked not to buy, use or supply fireworks and parents are requested to monitor their children and make sure they do not play with fireworks including bangers," the Council said in a statement.
Tips for a safe Holloween:
  • Parents, businesses and householders should not provide any materials for bonfires.
  • Do not leave material lying around that may be taken for use in a bonfire; many garage or garden shed items such as petrol, white spirits, diesel, aerosols, batteries, tins of paint, bottles and tyres are especially dangerous if set on fire.
  • Do not facilitate illegal bonfires or firework displays on or near your home or property.
  • Explain the dangers of illegal bonfires and fireworks to children and teenagers.
  • Keep pets indoors on Halloween night – they are sensitive to noise.
  • Respect the work of the Emergency Services, Council Staff and the Gardaí.
  • Contact the Fire Service by calling 999 or 112 if you see a bonfire being lit close to buildings, trees, overhead cables, underground services or car parking areas.
More information available from Donegal County Council on 91 53900.
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