VIDEO: Ghouls and ghosts should take care when they scare

It’s that time of the year again when our streets will be filled with ghouls, goblins, and ghosts looking to trick or treat their Halloween away.

Despite the fun, for children, associated with All Hallows Eve, the public safety of trick or treaters along with animals and motorists remains a priority.

Road safety officer Noel Gibbons strongly advised parents: “The excitement of trick-or-treating can make everyone less cautious.

“To help keep children safe, parents should remind their kids about the rules of the road and ensure they will be seen by drivers this Halloween.”

The Mayo County Council official also urged parents to point out the dangers of throwing eggs or flour at moving vehicles.

And while Halloween is an exciting time for most, it can often be dangerous for our furry friends. The ISPCA is encouraging pet owners to take precautions to ensure pets stay safe.

According to the ISPCA, the noise and commotion of Halloween can be very distressing to some pets, and may drive them to unusual or extreme behaviour.

The charity is encouraging owners to make sure pets have an ID tag and is also urging owners to ensure their animals are kept in a secure place. They also recommend leaving the TV or radio on to drown out the noise of fireworks if a pet is afraid of them.

Brian Hanney of Dublin City Council’s Waste Management Services said the focus of the campaign is to promote a safe, enjoyable night for everyone and to “minimise the impact of environmental and social consequences of bonfires and illegal fireworks through preventative actions and awareness raising activities”.

Last year, Dublin City Council removed about 1,500 tyres and 750 tonnes of bonfire material. Dublin Fire Brigade is preparing ahead of the festivities and is liaising with Dublin Bus, gardaí, and the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to inform people about the dangers of illegal bonfires and fireworks.