Police in Halloween warning

PACEMAKER BELFAST 25/01/2016
Supt David Moore speaks to the Media at Lurgan Police station, after A gunshot was fired at police during serious disorder linked to an ongoing security alert in County Armagh on Sunday. Officers came under attack on Lake Street, Lurgan, from more than 100 petrol bombs. The PSNI said police were on the receiving end of "orchestrated, intense and prolonged violence". Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press — PACEMAKER BELFAST 25/01/2016 Supt David Moore speaks to the Media at Lurgan Police station, after A gunshot was fired at police during serious disorder linked to an ongoing security alert in County Armagh on Sunday. Officers came under attack on Lake Street, Lurgan, from more than 100 petrol bombs. The PSNI said police were on the receiving end of "orchestrated, intense and prolonged violence". Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press

That was the stark warning from Supterintendent David Moore who said, “Police in Armagh Banbridge and Craigavon District are appealing for parents, youth and community leaders to assist in making this year’s festivities safe and fun.”

He went on: “The weeks prior to and after Halloween are becoming an increasingly busy time of the year for the Police Service. We continually receive reports of criminal damage and youths causing annoyance to vulnerable people within the area. We want to make it clear that anyone caught breaking the law will be dealt with robustly.

“Parents need to make sure they know the whereabouts of their children and to make sure that they are not engaging in any criminal activity or criminal damage to property. Individuals are also being urged to pay close attention to their own personal safety, if they intend to be in the vicinity of fireworks, sparklers or bonfires. Fireworks contain explosive, flammable substances, which can cause serious injury to an individual or damage to property. Children using sparklers should also be closely supervised.

“We would also appeal to the community to help us stamp out illegal trading and misuse of fireworks by contacting local police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Always remember fireworks require a licence - except indoor fireworks and sparklers - it is illegal to possess, purchase, sell, handle or use fireworks except under licence.

Only adults should light or handle fireworks.

Never ever go back to a firework once lit - even if it does not go off. When watching fireworks, stand well back It is an offence to throw fireworks in the street or public places.