Police launch Halloween safety campaign

PUMPKIN carving, fancy dress and watching fireworks are often highlights in the family calendar, however Halloween and Bonfire Night are not fun for everyone and leave some people feeling anxious, intimidated and fearful.

With a small minority using Halloween and Bonfire as an excuse to commit anti-social behaviour, North Wales Police is urging parents and carers to take an interest in their children’s plans to ensure they’re acting responsibly and not risking falling foul of the law. The consequences of antisocial behaviour and criminality can have a lasting impact on a young person’s life, and on those affected by their actions.

The period is traditionally busy for the emergency services in the region and police officers will continue to be visible in the run up to and during the festivities to help prevent and detect antisocial behaviour.

The force has created two Halloween posters for members of the public to display that indicate whether they welcome trick or treaters, which can help vulnerable or elderly people to feel safer.

Police will also be visiting schools to educate pupils of the consequences of antisocial behaviour and the dangers of misusing of fireworks and bonfires.

Superintendent Helen Corcoran said: “We hope that this year, as was the case 12 months ago, people will take a responsible attitude to Halloween and Bonfire Night. The last 18 months has been difficult for everybody, and it’s understandable that many will be looking forward to celebrating the period with their families.

“We know the majority of people enjoy this time of year sensibly and we are not out to spoil their fun but unfortunately there is a minority who are intent on causing problems and use the festivities as an excuse to commit crime and act anti-socially.

"We want to work with our communities to ensure that they can enjoy themselves safely, so we will have officers out and about across the region – helping to educate, reassure and keep our communities safe."

Demand on emergency services rise significantly during the Halloween and Bonfire period. To keep emergency lines free for people who need it most, contact the relevant number: worries around antisocial behaviour and public safety is a matter for the police on 101 or an emergency on 999.

Meanwhile, concerns about noise, the sale of fireworks, littering and fly-tipping should be directed to your county council.