Dublin Fire Brigade’s Halloween Patrol: Navigating Bonfires Drunks and Unseen Fears
Dublin Fire Brigade is preparing for a busy Halloween, often considered one of their three busiest nights alongside St. Patrick’s Day and New Year’s Eve. As Halloween approaches, the brigade faces unique challenges, from bonfires to rising incidents of antisocial behavior.
Dublin’s Halloween Preparations
Firefighters have been active since late August, monitoring and responding to potential dangers associated with Halloween festivities. The night of October 25 saw crews extinguishing a small bonfire in Cherry Orchard, highlighting the ongoing risk.
Decreasing Bonfires and Antisocial Behavior
- Fire Brigade reports a downward trend in bonfire-related activities.
- Local councils have implemented proactive measures to minimize dangerous stockpiles.
- Residents can report suspicious wood piles using a hotline, and drones are utilized for surveillance.
Despite these efforts, incidents are still recorded. Firefighters have encountered groups disguised as council workers attempting to collect pallets for bonfires. Educating young people through school visits has proven effective in reducing hazards associated with these celebrations.
Anticipating Halloween Night
Statistics indicate that last Halloween was an outlier, with Dublin Fire Brigade responding to an emergency call every 70 seconds. Weather conditions will significantly influence activities this year, especially as heavy rain is predicted this week. Call volumes typically fluctuate, with pre-midnight hours seeing many bonfire-related calls transitioning to incidents involving intoxicated individuals after midnight.
Concerns Beyond Bonfires
Fireworks remain a significant concern, with expectations of at least one serious injury related to misuse. Additionally, there is growing anxiety about potential violence against asylum seeker accommodations during Halloween. The Gardaí are enhancing their presence at sensitive locations following disturbances in Saggart.
Safety Strategies for Firefighters
Firefighters often face risks when responding to calls. Last year’s riots in Dublin remain vivid in their memories, affecting how they prepare for this year’s events. Emergency services must balance addressing bonfires while ensuring crew safety against potential attacks.
Emerging Threats
New challenges are evolving, such as the use of gas canisters, including nitrous oxide, in bonfires, posing serious explosion risks. Fire crews monitor small fires but occasionally decide to leave them alone based on the immediate absence of risk. However, when Gardaí arrive, tensions may escalate.
- Firefighters find themselves in precarious situations, especially with children and other emergencies like choking incidents.
As Halloween approaches, Dublin Fire Brigade remains vigilant, prepared for whatever challenges the night brings while emphasizing the importance of safety for both their teams and the community.
