Halloween

Published: 31 October 2022

Officers are urging those out trick-or-treating and using fireworks this autumn to be considerate of other people in the community and are working to reduce incidents of anti-social behaviour (ASB).

Halloween is a fun time of year for many people and everyone who joins in with the festivities should have a safe and enjoyable time.

It is however important to remember that not everyone likes to celebrate or feels comfortable with trick-or-treaters approaching their home. In fact many elderly and vulnerable people, or families with pets, may find persistent door knocking and loud bangs very distressing. Police are urging people to be mindful of this and to speak to their children to make sure they understand what is and isn’t acceptable.

Superintendent Pete Steenhuis from Kent Police said: ‘For obvious reasons we tend to see an increase in anti-social behaviour and complaints at this time of year and it is vital we consider all of our residents. We will have high-visibility patrols in place around the county and officers will move on anyone causing ASB or intimidating members of the public.

‘Partnership work is key and we link in closely with other agencies and local businesses to help reduce the risk of incidents occurring. This includes visiting retailers to prevent the sale of eggs and flour to young people and reminding trick-or-treaters to respect the wishes of those residents who don’t want to be disturbed.

‘Whilst it is not always youngsters, and it is usually just a small minority of people who spoil celebrations with pranks that cause criminal damage and intimidation, incidents of ASB won’t be tolerated because we have a duty of care to ensure everyone feels safe in Kent and we will respond proportionately.’

Officers have been carrying out welfare visits to known vulnerable people, to give them advice and to ensure they have their posters, which discourage trick-or-treaters, on display in their windows. These posters are also available to download on the Kent Police website Search | Kent Police (https://s-url.co/R6MBAA)

For more advice visit Halloween and fireworks | Kent Police (https://s-url.co/SKMBAA)

No Trick or Treat Poster

Trick or Treat Welcome