Published Tuesday, 06 October 2009
More than 100 attended the launch of the Firework Safety Awareness Campaign by Northern Ireland Office Minister Paul Goggins and Public Safety Minister Michael McGimpsey in association with the PSNI and Fire & Rescue Service.
The authorities are seeking to build on the success of last year when firework injuries were reduced by over two thirds on 2007.
The campaign, including TV, cinema and radio advertisements encourages everyone to enjoy fireworks safely over the coming weeks.
Special learning information is also being distributed to primary schools which will also receive visits from Police and Fire and Rescue Service schools officers to deliver practical safety presentations.
At the same time police warned they would be stepping up their efforts to disrupt the illegal sale and importation of fireworks and would take firm action against those caught doing so.
Mr Goggins said "Fireworks can be spectacular and very enjoyable if used correctly. Our joint campaign is aimed at reducing the number of injuries particularly to children through misuse of fireworks and ensuring that everyone understands the regulations we have in place to ensure their safe sale, storage and use."
Mr McGimpsey added: "I want children to have a safe and enjoyable Halloween, which is why the launch of today's firework campaign is so important. Although fireworks are entertaining and exciting, if not properly handled they can be extremely dangerous and end in injuries, often serious ones."
Last year the number of children who suffered a firework injury was just 19, down from 65 twelve months before.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer Peter Craig urged everyone to act safely and to always follow manufacturers' advice on how to light and use fireworks.
"Never go near a lit firework, even if it hasn't gone off, as it could still explode and always let fireworks cool and dispose of them correctly," he said.
Chief Superintendent Nigel Grimshaw called on everyone to respect the law and firework safety code and pledged firm action on anti-social behaviour.
"Police will not hesitate to take action on anyone involved in anti-social behaviour, underage drinking and street drinking. I would urge parents to make sure they know where their children are and what they are doing," he said.