Police forces in south Northants and Thames Valley are urging people to give a thought for others as they celebrate Hallowe’en and Bonfire Night.
Buckingham Police Inspector Emma Garside and Bucks Fire and Rescue station manager Tim Parkins have joined together to promote safe and responsible celebrations in the Aylesbury Vale area.
Residents are being encouraged to display posters in their front windows if they don’t want to take part in Hallowe’en this year.
The ‘no trick or treat’ posters help prevent the distress that unexpected callers can cause for vulnerable members of the community. This initiative forms part of Buckinghamshire Community Safety Partnership’s commitment to tackling anti-social behaviour.
The posters can be downloaded from the Thames Valley Police website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk/crprev-home-hols-halloween.
Insp Garside, said: “There will be additional officers across the area to make sure people who are trick or treating are doing so in a friendly manner and not causing a nuisance. I know for some people this time of year can be a bother as your evenings are interrupted with people knocking on your doors for treats. Please be reassured that most of these children or teenagers are just getting involved in the Hallowe’en celebrations and will be friendly.
“However, if at any point if you feel unsafe, please feel free to contact the police and if you’re taking part in trick or treating, please do so respectfully and look out for the posters.”
The advice from station manager Tim Parkins and Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service on firework safety is that the safest way to enjoy Bonfire Night is to go to a properly organised public display. Their web-based Firework Safety Zone (www.bucksfire.gov.uk/BucksFire/Community+Safety/Firework+Safety+Zone+2010.htm) has information for using fireworks at home and guidance for pet owners, display organisers and fireworks retailers.
Officers at Northants Police have also been visiting schools across south Northants about crime prevention and staying safe in the run up to the half term holidays.