Stay safe this Halloween and bonfire night

Protect, respect and enjoy safely is the message from North Yorkshire Police as we approach Halloween and bonfire night this autumn.

Protect, respect and enjoy safely is the message from North Yorkshire Police as we approach Halloween and bonfire night this autumn.

Respect other people who can find this time of year distressing, particularly bonfire night and the days leading up to it.

It’s also important to remember that some people don’t enjoy Halloween or bonfire night and what you might think is fun can have a negative effect on other people’s lives. 

“Antisocial behaviour remains a key priority for the police around this time of year and officers will be out and about to help keep our neighbourhoods as safe as possible. 

“We also echo the advice from our fire service colleagues and urge you to think twice about having a home firework display but if you are having one, think carefully, plan carefully and follow the Firework Code. Some people and animals are scared by firework noise so if you’re planning to let off fireworks please tell your neighbours, avoid buying really noisy ones and remember the laws around setting them off.

“Whatever you are planning, please follow the rules and stay safe.”

There are many alternatives that mean you can still enjoy a memorable evening, including:

• Be creative: create a pumpkin trail where you live so everyone can join in without knocking on doors.

• Be active: get dressed up and take a walk around your neighbourhood to see homes decorated for Halloween.

• Be virtual: consider an online party with decorations, fancy dress and themed food. Play Halloween games, bake Halloween treats or tell spooky stories.

• Be social: take pictures of your spooky costumes and activities to share on social media.

• Be colourful: dress up the outside of your house with Halloween decorations for you and your neighbours to enjoy.

• Be treat-wise: buy your own sweets to give to your children so they don’t miss out.

• Be bright: if you carve a pumpkin, use a battery-powered light inside it to reduce the risk of fire.