Crime Prevention

On this month’s programme the Crimecall went on location and interviewed Mr.Greg O Dwyer, Chief fire officer with the Dublin Fire Brigade, who spoke about the experience and dangers encountered at Halloween. He also spoke about the injuries caused using illegal fireworks.

The team also had a contribution from two brothers Joshua and Ewan Brennan - who both received life changing injuries and now advocate against the use of illegal fireworks. Both men spoke about the profound and lasting impact of a Halloween night back in 2015.

Crime Prevention Officer, Sergeant John Fitzpatrick was in studio and provided information in relation to Operation Tombola, An Garda Síochána’s annual response to combat importation, sale and use of fireworks and anti-social behaviour during Halloween that commenced on Monday 5th of October 2026.

This operation seeks to create an awareness of the legislation which prevents the import, sale and possession of fireworks, but moreover to increase understanding of the harm that can arise from their use, e.g. burns, serious injuries, fires, damage to property, stress and trauma to vulnerable members in our communities and to animals.

It is important to note that it is illegal to import, sell or use a firework without a licence.

It is an offence to:

• Ignite or cause to ignite a firework or to throw, direct or propel a lit firework at a person or property.
• Possess a Firework with intent to sell or otherwise supply to another and who does not hold a licence under the Explosives Act 1875 (as amended).

An Garda Siochána who suspects, with reasonable cause, that a person has committed an offence under this section may arrest the person without warrant.

Penalties on conviction summarily may include a fine of up to €2500 and/or imprisonment of a term not exceeding 6 months.

Penalties on conviction on indictment may include a fine of up to €10,000 and or imprisonment not exceeding 5 years. 

Between 2023 and 2026 YTD there have been 575 explosives (fireworks) seized under Operation tombola with an estimated value of €235,163. 2026 Year to date has seen a 7% increase in seizures compared to the same period the previous year.

There were 723 distinct incidents reported between 01/01/2023 and the 6/10/26. Over 98% of these incidents were categorised as Fireworks Offences. From these incidents where a suspect or suspected offender is recorded 95% were male and 5% were female. The data shows that most suspects/suspected offenders are under 18 making up 71%.

Fireworks are subject to strict controls in Ireland. They are classified as restricted goods and may only be imported into the state with the appropriate licence or authorisation. Members of the public should not purchase, transport, import or possess fireworks unless they are satisfied that they are legally entitled to do so. This includes bringing fireworks into the Republic of Ireland from Northern Ireland.

We encourage families to enjoy the Halloween period safely and responsibly. Parents and guardians, particularly those with young children, should also be aware of the great dangers associated with bonfires and fireworks, many of which can be unintentional.

To remain safe during Halloween, please follow these guidelines:

• Only attend organised bonfire events
• Never consume intoxicants when near a bonfire
• Make sure children stand at a safe distance
• Keep everyone well back from the display/fire
• Never use illegal fireworks. If there are fireworks nearby, never return to a lit firework. Wait 20 minutes and place it in a bucket of water.
• Never handle or throw fireworks
• Please report any illegal use or sale of fireworks to your local Garda Station or the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111.

Public festivals can be a great way for families to enjoy fireworks and we would encourage people to attend organised legal firework and bonfire displays during Halloween.

A key component of Operation Tombola is active engagement with local authorities and partner agencies in each Garda division, and Gardaí collaborating closely with these stakeholders to ensure a unified approach to preventing anti-social behaviour during the Halloween period.

As part of Operation Tombola, Community Policing Gardaí visit schools and speak to children in the months of September and October in relation to the dangers of fireworks and bonfires. Parents and teachers can support this effort by having further discussion and open conversations with young people about the dangers of misusing fireworks.

Vulnerable individuals and animals:

While some people enjoy Halloween, many do not. Fireworks are dangerous as they can cause severe injury or fires, they also scare both people and animals.

Fireworks can cause great stress and danger to vulnerable people in our communities, particularly older people and those with sensory issues. In addition, they can cause family pets, livestock and wildlife great distress and harm and can aggravate guide and assistance dogs. Animals can find fireworks very distressing and may suffer from anxiety and fear like humans.