Police statement on trick-or-treating

THAMES VALLEY Police officers have warned that they will be carrying out patrols in the evenings to make sure that people who are trick-or-treating are doing so in a friendly manner and not causing a nuisance.

Pumpkin carved by Amelia Steel

An alert issued today advised trick-or-treaters: “Have fun during Halloween and Bonfire Night, but don’t be influenced by others into doing things that may seem minor at the time – your actions could have a massive impact on not only people inside their house, but on your life as well.”

What to do if you feel unsafe

“For some people, this time of the year can be a bother as your evenings are interrupted with people knocking on your doors for treats,” went on the statement. “Most of these children or teenagers are just getting involved in the Halloween celebrations and will be friendly. But if you feel unsafe:

* Don’t open your door if you’re unsure who is there. Use your spyhole, look out of a window and use your door chain if you do decide to open your door.
* Have a contact number of a close relative or good neighbour to hand by your telephone, just in case you need to phone them.
* If you are part of a Neighbourhood Watch scheme, let your coordinator know that you will be on your own at Halloween. If you are a coordinator, please identity
people in your scheme that may be vulnerable and offer them reassurance.

“Thames Valley Police will not tolerate any anti-social behaviour at any time of the year. To report anti-social behaviour, call 101, the 24-hour Thames Valley Police non-emergency number. If you feel threatened, if it’s an emergency, or if a crime is in progress, call 999.”

Window posters

Follow this link to download ‘no trick or treats’ posters