On housing estates and in public parks around the State this weekend, young people (and sometimes the not so young) will break the law with carefree abandon. In some ways more troubling than this, however, will be the widespread anti-social behaviour that is the hallmark of some people's idea of Halloween fun.
Every year around this time, the elderly in particular and others of nervous disposition are forced to cower in their homes as blasts from illegal fireworks shatter the quiet of afternoons and evenings and often continue long into the night. Further distress is caused by the suffering inflicted on domestic pets, especially dogs.
It happens with wearying predictability and to date, little has been done to stamp it out. There are signs, however, that this "look the other way" attitude by the authorities is changing. The provisions of the Criminal Justice Act 2006, which were highlighted in this newspaper earlier this week, are stiff to be sure. A €5,000 fine awaits anyone convicted summarily of unlicensed possession of fireworks; €10,000 for conviction on indictment. Setting off unlicensed fireworks can lead to a fine of between €2,500 and €10,000, and six months to five years imprisonment. Similar sanctions await anyone convicted of aiming fireworks at a person or property, or anyone selling or supplying fireworks illegally.
There is no room for ambiguity in the new law, and a good thing too. The test, however, will be in its enforcment. Reports this week suggesting that gardaí in Co Louth are making a special effort to stem the flow south of illegal fireworks bought in Northern Ireland are to be welcomed.
It is to no one's credit that mere yards north of the Border at Killeen in Co Louth, sellers hoping for quick and easy money have set up largescale firework supply operations to serve unscrupulous buyers from the South who themselves, for the most part, are hoping to turn a fast profit by re-selling their booty in the Republic.
Fireworks are fun, to be sure, but they can be dangerous and should be used only under supervision. No one who has witnessed the huge displays associated in recent years with events like Dublin's St Patrick's Day Festival would say they are anything other than enjoyable, family events.
When used inappropriately, however, they have the potential to inflict life-changing injuries including lost fingers and eyesight. Equally, no one who has seen the distress caused to old people and animals can deny their real fears. Food for thought this weekend and on Tuesday night.