With Halloween just around the corner, Humberside Police are gearing up to make sure it’s a ‘spooktacular’ time for everyone – including those who’d rather not get involved. To the delight of many, the season is fast approaching and once again people will be making the most of the occasions celebrating with friends and family.
This period is always one of the busiest for the police, however, they would like to offer reassurance to those who are looking to enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night or those that prefer not to. Humberside Police want to remind those intent of causing harm or committing offences, that they are out in force and ready to act against anyone spoiling others’ fun.
Chief Superintendent Christine Wilson said: “You will begin to see a clear police presence on patrol in and around your neighbourhood over this period. We really want everyone to enjoy themselves so we want to remind the public we will be there to deal with any incidents promptly.
“We will take a zero tolerance approach when it comes to anyone deliberately looking to harm others enjoying the occasions. This includes being antisocial such as taunting or intimidating people, or throwing things at people, their houses or cars.
“Not everyone wants to celebrate occasions such as Halloween, so I would ask that those that are celebrating the season to consider their fellow neighbours to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
“For those who would rather not have trick or treaters visit their home, you can display our poster on your front doors or windows. I would ask parents and guardians to explain this to their children and make sure they don’t knock on these doors. Posters are available to download from our website or you can visit your local police station to receive a printed copy.
“We also have a poster for shops to display in their windows about the sale of items such as flour and eggs, which are commonly purchased by young people to use anti-socially on Halloween. We would encourage local shops to put these up and consider who they are selling these types of items to, as this will help to keep anti-social behaviour to a minimum.
“As the nights get darker, it is usual for us to see crimes such as burglary and theft rise, particularly if houses and vehicles are unattended whilst you go trick or treating, to gatherings or firework displays. Not locking doors or windows is the number one way to prevent offences of this nature, but for further crime prevention advice on protecting your home or protecting your vehicle, visit our website.
“Most importantly, we will be working hard with our partners at the council and Humberside Fire and Rescue to ensure everyone enjoys the Halloween and Bonfire Night period safely.”
If you need assistance at any point over this period, make sure you’re calling the right agency, as this means emergencies can be prioritised by the police, fire and the ambulance service and your issue is being picked up by the correct team. #MakeTheRightCall
Make the Right Call
For any incidents of crime or disorder – call the 101 number for non-emergency incidents, or call 999 in an emergency.
For any incidents of fires, deliberate or otherwise - call the fire service on 999. Advice and guidance on how to enjoy bonfire night safely can also be found on their website here.
For any incidents of noise complaints or waste being left – call your local council who will pass you onto the relevant department here.
