Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
Shutterstock/freeskyline
false alarm
'This can delay the response to a genuine emergency': Alarm raised after red distress flare fired in Howth
A spokesperson for Howth Coast Guard said the flare was fired from a boat moored in the harbour.
A MARINE DISTRESS flare was fired in the Howth area last night, but the Coast Guard found no vessels in distress after it investigated.
A spokesperson for Howth Coast Guard said the red parachute distress flare caused a number of people to ring 999 just after midnight.
He said that while investigating with gardaí, a report was received that the flare had been set off from a boat moored in the harbour area.
The Coast Guard also confirmed that no boats were in distress.
The spokesperson added: “It is against the law to fire distress flares unless in an emergency as they signal that someone is immediate danger and needs assistance from the Coast Guard.
Red distress flares are distinct in the sky, and will cause ships, and aircraft, and the public to alert the emergency services. False activation can tie up resources and delay the response to a genuine emergency call.
have your say