Humberside Police say they take ‘a zero-tolerance approach when it comes to anyone deliberately looking to harm others enjoying the occasions’
There will be “additional police presence on patrol in and around your neighbourhood” over the Halloween and Bonfire Night period. Humberside Police say the period from October 20 to November 8 is “always one of our busiest” and are reminding “those intent of causing harm or committing offences that we are out in force and ready to act against anyone spoiling others’ fun”.
The force is reassuring everyone that they will be taking a “zero-tolerance approach” to anyone “deliberately looking to harm others enjoying the occasions”. Leading the operation this year is Superintendent Liam Clorley, who said: “You will begin to see additional police presence on patrol in and around your neighbourhood over this period. We really want everyone to enjoy themselves so we want to remind the public we will be there to deal with any incidents promptly.
“We take a zero-tolerance approach when it comes to anyone deliberately looking to harm others enjoying the occasions. This includes people being antisocial and behaving in a way that taunts or intimidates people, or throwing things at people, their houses, or cars.
“Not everyone wants to celebrate occasions such as Halloween, so I would ask that those that are celebrating the season to consider their neighbours to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
“For those who would rather not have trick or treaters visit their home, you can display our poster on your front doors or windows. I would ask parents and guardians to explain this to their children and make sure they don’t knock on these doors. Posters are available to download here or you can visit your local police station to receive a printed copy.
“We also have a poster for shops to display in their windows about the sale of items such as flour and eggs, which are commonly purchased by young people to use anti-socially on Halloween. We would encourage local shops to put these up and consider who they are selling these types of items to, as this will help to keep anti-social behaviour to a minimum.
“As the nights get darker, it is usual for us to see crimes such as burglary and theft rise, particularly if houses and vehicles are unattended whilst you go trick or treating, to gatherings or firework displays. Locking doors or windows is the number one way to prevent offences of this nature, but for further crime prevention advice on protecting your home or protecting your vehicle visit our website.
“Most importantly, we will be working hard with our partners at the local authorities across our force area, alongside Humberside Fire and Rescue, to ensure everyone enjoys the Halloween and Bonfire Night period safely.”
A police spokesperson added: “If you need help at any point over this period, make sure you’re calling the right agency, as this means emergencies can be prioritised by us, fire and the ambulance service and your issue is being picked up by the correct team.”
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