Dublin Fire Brigade has urged the public to take extra precautions this Halloween, warning that candles, electrical decorations, flammable costumes and dangerous bonfires can pose serious risks to homes and families.
The emergency service received more than 200 fire-related calls before 8pm alone last Halloween, with crews in previous years responding to emergency calls approximately every 70 seconds throughout the night.
While bonfires account for much of the activity, home and car insurance provider OUTsurance has highlighted the hidden dangers inside Irish homes, particularly candles placed in carved pumpkins and decorations positioned too close to heat sources.
Ian Kennedy of OUTsurance said these hazards were often overlooked because decorations seemed harmless.
“A carved pumpkin with a real candle inside looks completely normal sitting on a windowsill or porch, until that candle tips, or a decoration brushes against it, or it's left burning after everyone's gone to bed,” he said.
He encouraged households to switch to battery-operated LED candles, adding that the simple change could significantly reduce the risk of accidental fires.
A Dublin Fire Brigade spokesperson also appealed to the public to respect emergency crews working throughout the celebrations.
“Our Firefighter/Paramedics want to enjoy Halloween as much as you do,” the spokesperson said, reminding people that emergency vehicles may be responding to seriously ill or injured patients.
The brigade has warned against approaching bonfires, which may contain dangerous materials such as tyres, gas cylinders and plastics that produce toxic smoke. Members of the public are also advised never to jump over fires or consume alcohol near them.
Residents and businesses are being urged not to leave waste accessible to bonfire collectors and to report suspected bonfire stockpiles to their local authority.
Fireworks are also a major concern, with the brigade highlighting the risk of severe burns, blindness and other life-changing injuries. Parents are advised to check costume safety, keep outfits away from naked flames and ensure children remain visible to motorists.
Households should avoid overloading electrical sockets, use outdoor-rated connections for exterior decorations and unplug lights before going to bed. Pet owners are also encouraged to keep animals indoors during fireworks displays.
The brigade reminded the public that anyone facing an immediate threat to life or property should call 999 or 112.
