Halloween Night Incident Count: 53 Callouts
Firefighters in Northern Ireland faced a Halloween night that was busier than usual, but slightly less hectic than the previous year. The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) reported that from 6pm on October 31 to 1am on November 1, crews responded to a total of 53 operational incidents. The figure reflects the Service’s vigilance during a night typically marked by increased activity across communities, including a mix of refuse fires, vehicle access needs, alight rubbish and some accidental dwelling fires.
What Constituted the 53 Incidents
Within the 53 callouts, responders dealt with a variety of emergency scenarios. A notable portion involved deliberate or accidental fires linked to Halloween celebrations, such as garden bonfires, bin fires, and small outdoor fires in residential areas. In addition to fire-related events, crews attended incidents that required immediate rescue or assistance, ranging from people requiring help after falls to calls about smoke or gas concerns in dwellings where families sought reassurance while awaiting specialists.
Comparing to Last Year
Officials noted that the Halloween period this year was marginally quieter than in 2023. While any surge in incidents is a reminder of the risks associated with celebrating in outdoor spaces, the slightly reduced workload suggests improved public awareness and possibly more cautious behaviour in the run-up to and on Halloween night. NIFRS has long emphasized the importance of flame-free celebrations and safe disposal of fireworks, both of which can influence the number and severity of incidents.
Public Safety Messages and Prevention
Ahead of Halloween, NIFRS and partner agencies launched safety campaigns to encourage residents to reduce fire risk and to keep escape routes clear in case of emergencies. Firefighters also reminded communities to:
- Keep a bucket of water or a suitable extinguisher handy for small outdoor fires, never leave them unattended.
- Store fireworks safely and follow local guidelines for lighting them away from homes and vehicles.
- Ensure smoke alarms are functioning and have an evacuation plan for the household.
- Report unusual smells or signs of potential gas leaks to the gas emergency number immediately.
Response and Readiness
The NIFRS response on Halloween night showcased the Service’s readiness to adapt to changing demand. Firefighters, supported by control room staff, coordinated rapid dispatch to incidents across urban and rural areas. The 53 callouts required a mix of frontline firefighting resources, rescue teams, and community safety officers who often work in close collaboration with police and ambulance services during busy public safety periods.
Impact on Communities
While the numbers provide a snapshot of activity, the ultimate goal remains protecting life and property. Local crews reported that most incidents were contained quickly, preventing injuries and limiting property damage. Community engagement, placement of extinguishers in high-risk areas, and timely reporting by residents all contributed to reducing potential losses and ensuring a calmer, safer Halloween for families and visitors alike.
Looking Ahead
As the Halloween period passes, NIFRS will analyse the incident data to identify trends and share lessons learned with the public. The Service continues to reinforce prevention messages and remains prepared for peak periods tied to public festivities, school holidays, or adverse weather that could influence fire risk or emergency demand.
