GARDAÍ are urging those thinking about buying or using fireworks this Halloween to have a rethink.

They have issued the plea ahead of Halloween, when many horrific life-changing injuries are sustained by fireworks.

GardaI are also warning that fireworks are not only dangerous but there are severe criminal penalties for anyone who is found guilty of the offence of igniting an illegal firework, throwing an ignited firework at a person or property or possession of illegal fireworks for sale or supply. The penalties are fines of up to €10,000 and five years imprisonment.

A garda spokesperson said: “Should anybody come across fireworks for sale, or any type of antisocial or illegal behaviour in the run up to or at Halloween, we ask them to please alert us immediately on a 24/7 basis in Letterkenny on (074) -9167100, Milford on (074) 9153060, Buncrana on (074) 9320540 or Ballyshannon on (071) 9858530. Always call 999 or 112 in an emergency.”