Police in Burnham-On-Sea have this week warned they will crackdown on any anti-social behaviour during the Halloween weekend as they launched a high-profile bid to ensure residents have a safe, fun and peaceful time.
Traditionally, Halloween has been the busiest night of the year for police but during the past two years the number of incidents has dropped, something that police are keen to see repeated this year in Burnham.
Officers have warned they will not tolerate anti-social behaviour and high-visibility patrols will be carried out throughout the Halloween weekend.
Ahead of October 31st, activities have been taking place to help ensure it is another happy Halloween.
Officers have been distributing leaflets and posters to residents and businesses containing advice.
Residents not wishing to receive Trick or Treat callers are able to display posters in their windows asking people not to knock on their door.
Police teams have also been working with retailers to crack down on the sales of flour and eggs to unaccompanied under-18s and diversionary activities, such as local discos, have been encouraged in the area.
Crime Reduction Officers and Schools Liaison Officers have also been visiting schools and working with teachers to give students advice on the use of fireworks and their personal safety when out trick or treating.
Chief Inspector Yannis Georgiou told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Our aim is to provide reassurance and support to make our communities feel safe and be safe on the evening, allowing everyone to get into the spirit of the occasion and to have a fun and safe time.”
“We know for older people this time of year can be a stressful and worrying time, but everyone will be working together to ensure that it is a trouble-free period.”
Our photo, top, shows Burnham-On-Sea police launching their Halloween campaign outside the town’s library and, above, with children last year
.Police advice for safe ‘Trick or Treating’
Police have issued several tips for Trick or Treating to ensure that everyone stays safe this Halloween and that more vulnerable residents don’t feel intimidated:
• Always go trick or treating with other people. You will have more fun and it will always be safer for you.
• Make sure an adult knows where you will be and always stay in that area.
• Always stay on the doorstep – don’t go into the homes of people you don’t know.
• Respect posters put up by residents, like the one shown here.
• If you are going to do tricks make sure they are harmless. Remember that Halloween is not an excuse to break the law and if you commit crime or anti-social behaviour you will be dealt with by police the same as on any other day of the year.
• Parents of younger children taking part in Halloween festivities are encouraged to accompany their children or ensure they remain in groups and to wear reflective or bright clothing.
Click to download the police’s Halloween ‘trick or treat’ window poster
