AS THE spooky season draws nearer, with both tricks and treats coming to the fore in our minds, Gardaí have warned about the consequences of anti-social behaviour and a lack of consideration for others as we get swept up in the Halloween spirit.
Fireworks can be heard almost nightly around the city from mid September up until Halloween, and Gardaí have sent out an early working that those found with the illegal contraband can be fined, prosecuted, or worse.
“In Ireland, fireworks are illegal for personal use, unless licensed. Possession, sale, or use without authorisation can lead to fines or prosecution,” said Sergeant Natasha Walsh, of Henry Street Garda Station.
“But more than that, when it goes wrong, it can go very wrong. It’s really not worth it.”
The Henry Street sergeant said that fireworks are not just a nuisance for humans, dogs are also “driven up the walls because of fireworks”.
Sergeant Walsh also warned of seemingly innocent children’s ‘trick or treat’ games which can cause massive distress for people.
“I call it Runaway Knock,” Sergeant Walsh said. “The game of knocking on someone’s door and running away.”
“Some people might view this as an innocent game, but it can be really harmful for the elderly and vulnerable members of out communities.
“I would implore parents to have these conversations with their children before they go out with their friends over the coming weeks, a little bit of kindness and respect goes a long way.”