Up in smoke: Halloween clean-up to cost Kilkenny Council a whopping €50,000

The Halloween clean-up in Kilkenny will cost in excess of €50,000 – money that could be far better spent on other community, according to a local emergency service.

Kilkenny Fire and Rescue Service is appealing to people not to build or attend bonfires this Halloween, not just because of the cost, but also on health and safety grounds.

In a statement posted by the local fire service, they reminding people, with just a little over a week to go until Halloween, that bonfires and fireworks are dangerous and carry a high risk of injury.

The Fire Service said: “Burning tyres and other toxic materials releases pollutants into the atmosphere, which is bad for our health, especially for asthma sufferers and those with respiratory diseases.

“It’s bad for the environment – burnt earth on parkland, pitches and community green spaces will take approximately 18 months to recover.

“Halloween costs Kilkenny County Council in the region of €50,000 – think what that money could do for your community – such as new playground equipment.”

The Fire Service urged members of the public to think of vulnerable groups such as older people this Halloween.

“Communities, especially older people can become afraid when they see a bonfire and hear the associated noise.

“Be safe, stay safe, and don’t have any regrets.”