Kildare firefighter had rocks thrown at them during a reckless attack on a fire truck

Last Friday, a member of Kildare Fire Service has stones and rocks thrown at them during a reckless attack.

In a statement made on social media, Kildare Fire Service also said that a fire truck was targeted in the attack and had its windows smashed in.

This damage to the fire appliance will mean it will need to come out of service for repairs, the fire service in Kildare said.

“This is not just damage to a fire engine. This is an attack on the very people who are there to protect our communities.

“Our firefighters respond to emergencies calls to protect lives, homes and property within the commuties of County Kildare and should never have to fear for their own safety while doing so,” Kildare Fire Service said.

Kildare Fire Service is asking communities to consider that the next emergency call could be to your home, your family or someone you love.

“We know that the overwhelming majority of people in our communities respect and support our firefighters, and we are grateful for that continued support. Sadly, the reckless actions of a small minority can have serious consequences for everyone.

“To parents, guardians and young people – please be mindful of the dangers associated with bonfires, fireworks and anti-social behaviour. What might seem like a moment of fun can have life-changing consequences,” Kildare Fire Service said ahead of Halloween night.

“All we ask is that you allow them to do their jobs safely and return home to their families at the end of the call”.

Chief Fire Officer Niall O'Riordan said on KFM that firefighters have been used as "target practice" in recent times, with stones being thrown on some occasions towards themselves and fire engines.

"It's become almost a tradition to target fire officers with stones, so please bear in mind that these people are just doing their jobs, and have families to go home to tomorrow night," he said on KFM.