October 24 2011.


With Halloween approaching, Sussex Police have issued a warning reminding everyone to be safe, have fun and celebrate considerately.

To ensure that the there is not an increase in noise nuisance or vandalism on the night, there are partnership operations going on between Sussex Police, fire and rescue services, district councils, county councils and youth services across Sussex.

Chief Inspector Laurence Taylor said: "We want everyone to be able to enjoy Halloween and all the celebrations that are on offer. But for some, especially the elderly and vulnerable, it can be a distressing time. Many of the calls we get are about children and young people. Sometimes what they intend just as fun can upset others, endanger people or damage property.

"We would encourage parents to make sure they know where their children are and what they are doing so that they can have fun safely and responsibly.

"Residents can be assured we will provide extra police resources and we will be checking that the regulations on the sale of alcohol and fireworks are being followed."

The advice is:
If you are a parent or guardian with young children, don't allow them to go out without an adult. If you and your children are planning to go 'Trick or Treating', respect notices that are displayed in homes of people stating that they do not want to take part.

If your teenage children are planning to 'Trick or Treat', ensure you know exactly where they are going, what time they will be home and remind them to stay with their friends and not to knock on the doors of strangers, or those who do not want to get involved.


To watch a blog of Chief Inspector Taylor talking about Halloween, go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_qpznvniNA   

For more advice or to download a 'No Trick or Treaters' or 'Trick or Treaters welcome' poster - visit www.sussex.police.uk/advice-and-support/halloween