03/11/2026
🛑Fire Service Condemns Attack on Firefighters and Emergency Vehicle
Westmeath Fire and Rescue Service has strongly condemned an incident of antisocial behaviour directed at a fire crew on Saturday night, during which firefighters responding to an emergency call were targeted with fireworks.
Thankfully, no firefighters were injured. However, attacks on emergency service personnel remain a serious concern. Similar incidents in Westmeath and across the country have resulted in injuries to firefighters and significant damage to emergency vehicles.
These attacks have real consequences. Injured personnel may be unable to respond to emergencies, while damaged fire appliances can be taken out of service, reducing emergency response capability for local communities.
This is not simply an attack on a fire engine. It is an attack on the people who dedicate themselves to protecting lives, homes, businesses and communities.
Firefighters should never have to fear for their own safety while carrying out their duties.
When crews come under attack, they may be forced to withdraw from an incident to protect themselves, as happened on Saturday night. This can delay assistance to those in need and place lives and property at risk.
The next emergency call could be to your home, your family or someone you care about. Attacks on emergency services affect entire communities by delaying vital assistance when it is needed most.
We thank the overwhelming majority of people across County Westmeath for their continued support. We also urge parents, guardians and young people to be aware of the dangers associated with fireworks, bonfires and antisocial behaviour. What may seem like a prank can result in injury, damage and delayed emergency response.
All we ask is that our firefighters are allowed to do their jobs safely and return home to their families after every call.
Anyone with information relating to attacks on emergency services is encouraged to contact An Garda Síochána.
Westmeath Fire and Rescue Service thanks the public for its continued support and reiterates that violence, intimidation or antisocial behaviour towards emergency service personnel is completely unacceptable.
