Halloween and Bonfire night safety advice
30 October 2012
Halloween and Bonfire Night are approaching and Police in Lambeth have commenced their seasonal crackdown on crime and anti-social behaviour.
Police officers, PCSO’s from Lambeth Safer Neighbourhoods Teams plus enhanced numbers of special constables and cadets are being deployed to provide a greater police presence on the streets through operational activity to deter a small number of people from ruining the fun for the vast majority.
"Those intent on committing crime and anti-social behaviour will face the consequences"
Superintendent Andy Howe, head of Operations, said: “We want people to enjoy themselves, but we ask that they spare a thought on how their actions might impact on others.
Last year we worked effectively with our partners to reduce the level of incidents during this period. Historically burglary, anti-social behaviour and street crime rises during this period causing distress to many people, which is totally unacceptable.
I would like to stress that our operations are not aimed at demonising young people; the large majority behave safely and responsibly. However, those intent on committing crime and anti-social behaviour will face the consequences.”
Chief Inspector Robyn Williams, Partnership, said: “Officers from our Safer Neighbourhoods Teams have already begun distributing thousands of specially designed trick or treat leaflets to residents and local partners to promote responsible trick or treating, which contains a ‘No Trick or Treat’ poster for people to display in their window should they not wish to be disturbed by trick or treaters on Halloween.
Obviously displaying this poster is no guarantee that you will not be visited on Halloween but it does make it clear to parents and other responsible ‘trick or treaters’ where callers will be welcome.”
Key safety advice
Advice to parents and carers:
- Make sure you know where your children are and who they are with;
- Go with them trick or treating if you can;
- Keep fireworks in a safe place in the house;
- Report any anti-social behaviour or concerns to your Safer Neighbourhoods Team;
- Attend organised events wherever possible.
Advice to young people:
- We want you to enjoy yourselves but won’t tolerate unacceptable behaviour or anti-social behaviour;
- Ensure you are safe by staying with others;
- Attend organised events wherever possible;
- When trick or treating avoid knocking on the doors of elderly or vulnerable neighbours and causing unnecessary worry.
Keeping your home secure:
- Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes;
- Make sure UPVC doors are properly locked with a key;
- Make sure the side and/or back gate is locked;
- Lock your shed or garage;
- Make sure that any valuables are out of sight;
- Leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home;
- Don’t leave your car keys or ID documents near doors, windows or your letterbox.
- Operation Brightspark Leaflets to help residents celebrate the festival period safely