Halloween advice from Dorset Police

Dorset Police is urging the public to be safe and respect the wishes of others – while having fun this Halloween.

Halloween falls on Friday this year and residents and visitors to the county are being advised to act sensibly and be considerate to others.

A Dorset Police spokesperson said: “Lots of people like to dress up and have fun on Halloween, but for some people – especially the elderly and those living on their own – it can be quite a distressing time.

“…Our advice to parents or guardians is to please make sure that you know where your children are at all times, what they are doing and that they are safe.

“To help us ensure the public feel protected and safe, we advise that all trick or treating be supervised and that addresses are not visited after 9pm – and please keep an eye out for homes that are displaying ‘no trick or treaters’ posters.”

Halloween is a busy time of year for Dorset Police and Safer Neighbourhood Teams will be carrying out extra patrols.

If members of the public have any concerns then they can contact Dorset Police on 01202 / 01305 22 22 22. If life is in danger or a crime is in progress dial 999.

Dorset Police is also issuing the following advice to those who are planning to visit people’s homes for trick or treating:
• Make sure that a parent or guardian knows where you are – trick or treaters should always have adult supervision
• We recommend that you only call on friends, family or neighbours and ideally this should be arranged in advance
• Respect the rights of those who do not want to take part
• Do not accept money and be grateful for any treats
• We recommend that you do not play tricks on people – these can be frightening and could even be a criminal offence
• Finally, Dorset Police will not tolerate unacceptable behaviour