As the evenings get darker and Halloween approaches, the familiar sound of whizzing and banging can been heard in towns across the county, peaking at times and in areas where young people gather. 

 

Seen by some as simply seasonal fun, those using them have been asked to remember fireworks can not only be a nuisance for many residents, as well as pets and wildlife, but can be highly dangerous too. 

 

“Fireworks can undoubtedly provide fun and entertainment for young people at this time of the year but it is very important that everyone follows the right safety procedures and remembers that fireworks can be dangerous if misused,” said Devenish College principal Simon Mowbray. 

 

“It is also important that our young people take into account the impact that the use of fireworks have on others around them such as older residents, families with young children and even pets and animals. 

 

“I certainly wouldn’t want to dampen their fun and enjoyment but respect for others and their own safety have to be paramount.” 

 

With similar views, St Micheal’s College, Enniskillen principal Mark Henry states the college has a zero tolerance policy in regards the misuse of fireworks.

 

“Young lads seem to be drawn to this sort of behaviour and do not always think of the consequences. We do work in school to educate the boys and the PSNI has been in and addressed the boys about the dangers of fireworks. We want to make it clear to the boys to stay clear of this type of behaviour as fireworks are so dangerous and high risk.”

 

Aside from being aware of the safety concerns and the need to be considerate of others, young people have also been warned their firework fun could see them falling foul of the law. 

 

Police in Fermanagh said they had only received a small number of firework-related reports so far this year, but reminded the public that possessing or using fireworks without a licence was a criminal offence.

 

According to the law in the North, fireworks must only be bought from registered retailers, and your licence must be shown to the retailer at the time of purchase. 

 

It is illegal for fireworks to be sold by unregistered sellers, or from markets, car boot sales, vans, or on a street or public place. Only those over 16-years-old, or 18-years-old in some instances, can legally buy fireworks.  

 

Other than during properly licensed displays, fireworks are not allowed to be thrown or let off in a public place. There are also a number of types of firework that are illegal, including bangers, flash bangers, and double bangers.

 

There are several officially registered firework retailers in Fermanagh, including Margaret Lynch at Belleek Variety Store and Gerry Rooney at the Centra Foodmarket in Enniskillen. For the full list of these retailers, and the full guidelines on firework use, visit www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/fireworks.