25/10/11…No trick or Treat posters available to download

THIS is a Community Message from Thames Valley Police, regarding their Halloween Campaign for 2011.

Residents are being encouraged to display posters in their front windows this Halloween to show whether or not they welcome visits from trick or treaters.

The posters ?No trick or treat? can be obtained from the South Oxfordshire or Vale of White Horse District Council offices, or downloaded on the Thames Valley Police website: www.thamesvalley.police.uk

They are a simple but effective way to prevent the distress that unexpected callers can cause for vulnerable members of the community, while making sure that those who want to take part can enjoy all the trick and treats they like.

If anyone feels unsafe the advice is:

Do not open your door if you?re unsure who is there. Use your spy-hole, look out of a window and use your door chain if you do decide to open your door. If anyone feels threatened they should call the police non-emergency number 08458 505 505

Ensure your property is well lit so that you can clearly see who is approaching your front door.
Have a contact number of a close relative, friend or neighbour to hand by your telephone, just in case you need to phone them

If you are a member of a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme, let your co-ordinator know that you will be on your own at Halloween. If you are a Co-ordinator, please identify people in your scheme that may be vulnerable and offer them reassurance.

Anyone affected by the few individuals who use trick or treating as an excuse to commit crime or antisocial behaviour can report if by contacting Thames Valley Police on 08458 505 505.