Western Trust issues Hallowe'en reminder

The Western Health Trust has issued a reminder to people to 'stay safe' during the Hallowe'en period.

They're asking everyone, young or old, to 'avoid preventable attendances' to Trust Emergency Departments.

In particular, revellers are being asked to stay safe around fireworks - and to drink reponsibly.

"Halloween is traditionally an extremely busy time of the year for all the emergency services and particularly for our Western Trust staff working in the Emergency Department," says Mr Campbell Brown, Consultant in Emergency Medicine based at the South West Acute Hospital.

“Myself and my colleagues in the Emergency Department hope that people will keep themselves safe this Halloween avoiding the need for hospital care," he continues.

“If people are using fireworks as part of the Halloween festivities I would hope that they can enjoy them safely. Although fireworks can be entertaining and exciting, particularly for the younger members of our community, they can be extremely dangerous and can cause serious injury if not handled properly," he went on.

"Many people will be coming to enjoy the traditional Halloween celebrations in their local towns and larger events in the city which can be great fun. It is important that people enjoying themselves at the festivities think how their behaviour impacts on other people," he added.