Youngsters as young as 12 years of age are terrifying people by setting off fireworks close to their home, it has been claimed.
Sinn Féin Councillor Colly Kelly has appealed for the safe and responsible use of fireworks in the run up to Halloween. His call comes after he said he was “inundated” with complaints over the weekend about the use of fireworks and “bangers” in the Bogside and Brandywell areas.
Cllr Kelly said he was contacted by local people concerned about youngsters throwing “bangers” in the backyards of homes in the area.
He said fireworks and “bangers” were also being put inside drainpipes outside homes and inside “wheelie bins.”
Cllr Kelly said he had spoken to residents who informed him those involved were between the ages of 12-15.
He added: ” A lot of these bangers are being let off close to pensioners’ homes at night and it’s a very frightening experience particularly for the elderly and any family pets.
“If one of these bangers goes off in a child’s hand it will unfortunately result in a child being maimed and seriously injured. By all means, enjoy the festivities at Halloween, but be safe and do not let what should be a bit of fun turn into a nightmare, the consequences of which could be scars or disfigurement, which last a lifetime.”
Cllr Kelly said thousands of fireworks were being sold illegally and in many cases the people selling them were deliberately targeting young people.
He added: “In turn a lot of young people are using fireworks unsupervised and irresponsibly resulting in many cases in serious injuries. I call on those who are engaged in this type of activity to stop and reflect on how their actions can cause serious injuries and harm.”
