Celebrating Halloween safely

With Halloween fast approaching, the message is to 'keep safe, think of others and have fun' this spooky season. 

Halloween is a time of year where people want to go out and have some fun, however, it is also a time when the police witness an increase in anti-social behaviour.

We want Derbyshire residents to enjoy a safe and happy Halloween, but also recognise that this time of year can be stressful for the elderly, those who live alone and for the vulnerable - so we ask people to be respectful when celebrating.

Here are some helpful tips to help ensure your evening does not turn into a nightmare when trick-or-treating:

• Children should be accompanied by an adult.
• Remember road safety and wear bright clothing.
• Keep Halloween ‘tricks’ safe and respect people's property – do not let your children throw flour and eggs or cause damage.
• Be considerate to others - only go to the houses of people who you know, and who are happy for you to call round. Don't knock on stranger's doors.
• Don't call at houses that have 'no trick or treat' posters on show.
• Never be tempted to go inside someone's house if you don't know them.
• Keep to well-lit areas and don't take shortcuts through gardens or alleyways.
• Although Halloween is meant to be spooky, be considerate and try not to frighten others.
• Only handle fireworks if you’re over 18-years-old.
• If having a Halloween party at home, let your neighbours know beforehand, so they won't be alarmed. Between 11pm and 7am, keep the noise low and do not let fireworks off.

If you’re driving on Halloween, please be aware of the increased foot traffic, drive slowly and be vigilant.

You can find further safety advice, and a downloadable 'No Trick or Treat' poster that you can print off and stick in your window, below.

We've also posted safety tips to discuss with your children ahead of 'trick or treating'.

Our Youth Engagement Officer has also created a wordsearch, perfect for keeping young witches and warlocks entertained.

Reporting a concern

Halloween is one of the busiest nights of the year, so it's important that you choose the correct way to report a concern to the police.

For a full list of anti-social reporting methods, please visit Derbyshire's ASB Hub.

You can report crimes to us via:

• Facebook – send us a private message to /DerbyshireConstabulary
• Twitter – direct message our contact centre on @DerPolContact
• Website – complete the online contact form.
• Phone – call us on 101.

Please only dial 999 in a genuine emergency.

Our anti-social behaviour survey

If you have reported anti-social behaviour to Derbyshire Constabulary in the past twelve months, we want to hear from you.

We’re currently running a survey for victims of anti-social behaviour to share their experiences of the reporting process and the support offered.

To complete the survey please visit derbyshire.police.uk/asbsurvey