Halloween is a great opportunity for children and families to have fun, but please help us ensure everyone in Berrylands enjoys a safe and respectful evening.
For Children and Parents
Younger children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult. If older children are going out independently, agree a route, set a return time and ensure they have a charged mobile phone if possible.
Trick or treating is safer and more enjoyable with family & friends. Avoid going out alone.
Wear bright/reflective clothing or add reflective accessories to costumes so you can be clearly seen by drivers and other road users. Carry a torch to help you see where you are walking.
Plan a safe route using well-lit streets and stay in familiar areas.
Take extra care when crossing roads. Excitement, costumes and darkness can make it harder to spot traffic.
Avoid shortcuts through alleyways, parks, building sites or secluded areas.
Only knock at properties where residents appear to be welcoming trick or treaters. Please respect "No Trick or Treating" signs and do not knock at homes that are dark or showing no Halloween decorations.
Remember that some residents may be elderly, vulnerable, anxious around unexpected callers, or have young children sleeping.
Never enter a stranger's home, even if invited. Stay together as a group and remain on the doorstep.
Only eat sweets or treats from reputable shop-bought packaging and avoid consuming anything that appears tampered with.
Be Respectful
Halloween should be fun, not (too) frightening!
Do not throw eggs, flour, paint, fireworks or other items at people, animals, vehicles or property.
Do not climb on walls, enter gardens without permission or cause damage to fences, decorations, vehicles or homes.
Never pressure residents into giving money, sweets or treats. Move on politely if someone chooses not to answer.
Respect local businesses, parks and public spaces and take any litter home with you.
Autumn Nights ASB Advice
Unfortunately, we sometimes see a rise in anti-social behaviour during the “Autumn Nights” period.
Please remember:
The use of fireworks in streets, parks, alleyways and other public places can be dangerous and may constitute anti-social behaviour.
Fireworks should never be aimed at people, animals, vehicles, homes or emergency workers.
Motorists should be particularly vigilant around groups of children and young people during the evenings.
Residents experiencing anti-social behaviour, criminal damage or disorder should report it. In an emergency or where there is an immediate risk to safety, always call 999.
No Trick or Treating Sign
To help residents who would prefer not to receive Halloween callers, we have attached a "No Trick or Treating" sign that can be printed and displayed at your property. If you would like a sign but do not have access to a printer, please reply to this message before Friday morning and the Berrylands Safer Neighbourhood Team will do our best to drop one off for you.
