Cork's Mercy hospital highlights three major risks ahead of Halloween

Halloween consistently brings a surge of preventable injuries to the Emergency Department, the CEO of Cork’s Mercy University Hospital (MUH) has said, as the hospital issues a public safety appeal.

The city centre hospital has highlighted the significant risks associated with activities such as bonfires, fireworks and excessive alcohol consumption which frequently lead to severe, yet preventable, injuries and place undue strain on vital Emergency Department resources.

Margaret McKiernan, CEO at Mercy University Hospital said: “Halloween is a time for celebration, but unfortunately it also consistently brings a surge in preventable injuries to our Emergency Department.

“Our teams witness firsthand the life-altering consequences from devastating burns due to bonfires and illegal fireworks to accidents from alcohol misuse. In the majority of cases, these incidents are entirely avoidable.

“We encourage the public to make responsible choices this Halloween to protect themselves, their loved ones, and to ensure our dedicated healthcare professionals can focus on those with genuine, unavoidable medical emergencies.” 

A hospital spokesperson warned that uncontrolled bonfires pose extreme risks, including severe burns, respiratory issues, and property damage, with illegal bonfires and the use of accelerants particularly hazardous.

Illegal fireworks can cause devastating injuries, from severe burns to permanent vision and hearing loss, the hospital said, strongly advising against their use.

Excessive alcohol intake contributes significantly to falls, road traffic accidents and assaults, the hospital spokesperson added, encouraging people to drink responsibly and plan safe transport.

In general, they advised people to be vigilant about safe environments, avoiding tripping hazards, and exercising caution with sharp objects for decorations.

In the event of a paediatric accident or emergency, you should visit the Children's Emergency Department at Cork University Hospital (CUH). For minor injuries, children aged ten and over can attend the Mercy Injury Unit, St. Mary’s Health Campus, Gurranabraher.