Two firefighters have been injured after a firework was thrown into their vehicle while responding to an incident in Co Down on Halloween night.
Firefighters from Rathfriland Fire Station were attending a bonfire incident in the Hilltown area, when a firework was thrown into the Fire Appliance causing injury.
Figures from the NIFRS show that between 6pm on October 31 and 1am on November 1, fire crews responded to 63 operational incidents, including sixteen bonfire incidents. The fire service said most of these bonfires were started by youths.
Read more: Fire service emergency callouts on Halloween increase across NI
Read more: Halloween chaos as huge crowds gather in Dublin for hoax parade
The incident involving a firework being thrown at fire crews has been condemned. Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt, said: “I was appalled to hear that two firefighters were injured in this mindless attack last night and I wish to send my best wishes to both of them for a speedy recovery.
“No-one should have to face aggression or violence in the course of their job, least of all our frontline firefighters who dedicate their lives to protecting others from harm while carrying out their roles in often very dangerous conditions. Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service crews have a challenging enough job without having to contend with an attack like this.
“It was my privilege to meet firefighters earlier this week when I officially opened the newly-refurbished Antrim Fire Station. I know I speak for the vast majority of people in commending the dedication and commitment of all our firefighters to serving the community day and night.”
Following the incident, a spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) said: "Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service responded to calls during the night of Halloween celebrations. From 6pm on 31 October 2024 – 1 am on 1 November 2024 Fire Crews responded to 63 operational incidents. Sixteen of these incidents were bonfire related.
"Most of these bonfires were started by youths. It is important that young people are aware of the damage they are causing to their local community by deliberating starting fires. Bonfires can pose a real risk to public safety and property.
"This is particularly relevant in an uncontrolled environment which factors such as weather conditions, human behaviour, material used, level of supervision and the proximity of the bonfire to surrounding buildings.
“Additionally, whilst Firefighters from Rathfriland Fire Station were attending a bonfire incident in Hilltown, a firework was thrown into the Fire Appliance causing injury to 2 Firefighters. We are aware that this sort of behaviour comes from a small minority of people and we appeal for this type of behaviour to stop. Our Firefighters work tirelessly for the community which they serve and so we encourage people to always act responsibly and stay safe.”
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