Dorset Police news site

Dorset Police is asking those celebrating to do so respectfully so everyone can have a fab-boo-lous Halloween and stay safe this season.

If you are celebrating Halloween this year by heading out trick-or-treating, we want you to have a fun and safe time, but remember that not everyone wants visitors at their door. Seemingly harmless fun can be experienced by others as distressing.

When out and about, look for the houses that are decorated and welcoming to visitors and be considerate to more vulnerable members of the community that may be alarmed by people knocking on their doors.

We would like to encourage those who don’t want visitors to go to https://www.dorset.police.uk/Halloween where you can download and print a poster to place on the front door or window of your home.

For those who are embracing the spooks by going out trick-or-treating, here are some top tips to help you have fun and stay safe this Halloween:

• Younger children should always be accompanied by an adult when they are trick-or-treating
• Only go to houses of people you know and who are happy for you to call
• Stay safe, try to keep to places that you know and are well lit
• Watch out for traffic – drivers might not see you
• Carry a torch and a fully charged mobile phone (if you have one) to ensure you can contact family and friends if needed

Retailers are also being asked to be vigilant in the sale of products that could potentially lead to anti-social behaviour, such as flour, eggs and alcohol. A poster is available on our website, link above, which retailers can download and place in their shop windows.

Chief Superintendent and BCP Commander Heather Dixey, of Dorset Police, said: “In these darker nights we want everyone to stay safe. In recent years we’ve seen an increase in the number of people participating in Halloween fun.

“We’d say to anyone who’s going trick-or-treating to think about other people, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, as they may get worried if strangers are continually calling at the door during the evening.

“We don’t want to discourage anyone or spoil their fun, but remember to be respectful and think about the impact of your actions on other people. Help us make Dorset a safe county for everyone.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick said “Halloween provides an opportunity for our communities to come together and enjoy the festivities, but it is vital that this is done responsibly and with consideration for others.

"When you are out celebrating, please remember to be respectful of those around you who do not wish to celebrate or may be adversely affected by strangers calling at their door during the evening.

"I wish everyone an enjoyable Halloween and thank our communities for helping to keep Dorset safe for all.”

Tess Cross, Education Manager at Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We hope everyone has a happy Halloween whether you are celebrating or not.

“Don’t forget to make sure children are safe – teach them to stay away from candles, especially if wearing fancy dress and keep matches and lighters out of their reach.”