Police are to step up patrols - to ensure Halloween is a safe and fun event in Huddersfield.
Extra officers will be on duty on Saturday in the town and elsewhere in West Yorkshire to make sure young revellers stay safe - and to stop trick or treat fun getting out of hand.
Police chiefs say many, particularly the elderly, are already feeling anxious about what Halloween night, and next week’s Bonfire Night, will bring.
They are asking people to stay safe and to consider the well-being of others. Neighbourhood Policing Teams will provide additional patrols and special constables will work with police officers and police community support officers to provide extra cover.
Supt David Lunn said: “We are hoping that the public will work with us to help everyone enjoy the celebrations. We don’t want to spoil anyone’s fun but are asking people to stay safe and to consider how their behaviour may affect others.
READ MORE: Eyes on the Halloween skies.
“Parents in particular should keep a close eye on what their children are doing. What some people see as a bit of harmless fun can cause a great deal of anxiety for vulnerable people and Halloween isn’t always an enjoyable time for everyone.”
“Young people out ‘trick or treating’ should go out in groups, with younger children in particular accompanied by an adult. It’s best for groups to visit the homes of friends or neighbours instead of strangers.
“Young people should also remember that elderly or vulnerable residents may prefer not to be visited on Halloween night and we would ask parents to remind children of this, and ask them to look out for the ‘No trick or treat’ posters.
“We want everyone to have fun and stay safe so make sure your ‘tricks’ don’t go too far. Action will be taken against those involved in anti-social behaviour. Mischievous behaviour may actually be anti-social behaviour and more serious offences can result in heavy fines or even court action”.
Special posters are available from police stations urging tricksters to stay away.
Meanwhile fire chiefs have warned people to be vigilant around candles and other naked flames, such as in lanterns and pumpkins.
Asst Chief Officer, Dave Walton, said: “We fully support the campaign to make fancy dress outfits safer for children to wear, following the terrible incident involving the daughter of presenter Claudia Winkleman last year. We would recommend you use the safer option of LED lights instead of candles, and keep children away from naked flames”.
Check out your Halloween pumpkin carvings below.
