How to avoid getting spooked this Halloween and Bonfire Night

Living Magazines Hertfordshire Constabulary black

With pumpkin season in full swing and fireworks set to light up the skies, many people across Hertfordshire will be preparing for Halloween and Bonfire Night celebrations over the next couple of weeks.

While it’s a time of excitement for many families and communities, police are urging people to enjoy the festivities responsibly and be mindful that loud noises and unexpected visitors can be unsettling for others.

Local Policing Superintendent Chris Hay said: ‘Across the county, neighbourhood officers will be out and about helping to keep our communities safe and providing a visible presence during what can be a busy time of year.

‘We want everyone to enjoy themselves, but we also ask people to remember that not everyone celebrates Halloween or Bonfire Night. A little consideration can go a long way. What might seem like harmless fun to one person could cause worry, distress or inconvenience to someone else.

‘Please take a moment to look through our safety advice and, if you have any concerns, speak to your local officers or get in touch with us through our usual contact channels.’

If you’re heading out to celebrate, please remember:

  • Children should always go trick-or-treating with a responsible adult and never alone
  • Only visit homes that appear to be taking part, such as those displaying Halloween decorations or ‘Trick or Treaters Welcome’ posters
  • Keep any ‘tricks’ good-natured. Damage to property, threatening behaviour, abusive language or causing harm to others are criminal offences
  • Take extra care near roads, especially when visibility is reduced after dark
  • It is illegal to set off fireworks in public places
  • Anyone hosting a private fireworks display should be aware that fireworks must not be set off after 11pm, except on Bonfire Night when the cut-off extends to midnight
  • Further guidance on fireworks legislation can be found at www.gov.uk/fireworks-the-law

Young witches and wizards can once again test their knowledge in Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Halloween quiz competition, with the chance to win tickets to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter in Leavesden. – Warner Bros. Studio Tour London | Official Website

The competition closes at midnight on Friday 13 November.

To enter the competition and find more seasonal safety advice, visit herts.police.uk/Halloween.

To contact police, report information online at herts.police.uk/report, chat to the Force Communications Room via herts.police.uk/contact, or call 101 for non-emergencies. In an emergency, always dial 999.