Halloween is on Friday 31st October and will soon be here and we want to remind people that Staffordshire Police will be working to discourage any anti-social behaviour and ensure a safe Halloween for all.

Halloween can be a great time of year for many, children and young people, and a great opportunity to dress up and go trick or treating.

However, for some people in our communities, Halloween behaviour can leave them feeling intimidated and distressed, or they simply don’t want to be visited by trick or treaters.

It is also important that people keep safe and below are some top tips to having a frightfully good time:

·  Plan your trick or treat route beforehand. Only go to houses where you or your friends know the residents. Always go in groups. Don’t go without an adult.

·  Be cautious about eating what people give you when out trick or treating. Check with an adult when you get home.

·  Be visible, stay in areas that are well lit with street lights where possible. Take a torch just in case.

·  Don’t wear masks that restrict your vision. You need to see when crossing roads.

·  Don’t enter any house when trick or treating, stay on the doorstep.

·  Don’t knock on doors where you see a ‘No trick or treat callers’ sign.

·  Avoid using real candles in lanterns and pumpkins. Battery operated lights are safer.

Please remember, It is not just at Halloween when unexpected callers turn up on your doorstep. Remember official visitors should always make an appointment beforehand. Look through the door view or window to see who is outside. If you decide to open the door, put the chain or bar on first. Check the caller’s details before you let them into your home. Telephone the relevant organisation to confirm the caller’s identity. Do not rely on a phone number that the caller gives to you, make sure you google the company yourself, or if you have a bill from the Company, i.e. Gas/Electricity/Water look on one of your bills and you will find a number to call their Customer Service. Do not feel pressurised into buying items on your doorstep and be wary of callers who may offer home repairs or gardening. Make sure you get at least 3 quotes from different companies before you decide which Company you are going to use or use a company someone recommends.  Call the Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 1133

Report any crimes or suspicious incidents to the police on 101 or dial 999 in an emergency.