Have a spook-tacular safe Halloween

From planning where you go trick and treating to making sure you avoid fire hazards when decorating your home.

Advice from our community safety team, police and London Fire Brigade

• Trick or treating is better with a group of friends. If possible, don’t go out alone.
• Younger children should always be accompanied by an adult.
• It will be dark, so wear bright costumes so you can be seen by others, including drivers. Take a torch or glow stick with you.
• Make sure your costumes have flame-resistant labels.
• Plan a safe route that is well-lit and stick to it.
• Don’t call at any home showing a “No trick or treating” sign – it might be the home of a vulnerable or elderly resident who could be worried by unexpected callers or a family with young children sleeping.
• Never go into a stranger’s house even if you are invited – stay with your friends on the doorstep.
• Never demand money and be pleased with any treats you get.
• Don’t vandalise anything or throw things like eggs, flour or paint at people, their homes or animals. This could be seen as criminal damage or assault.
• If decorating your home with lanterns, try to use battery operated tea lights instead of candles.

Councillor Barry Mugglestone, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: 

“Trick or treating for Halloween can be great fun, but children, their parents and guardians need to follow a few basic rules so they stay safe.

“It is also important to respect your neighbours and communities where you live, so no one feels threatened and everyone who wants to mark Halloween can do so and enjoy it.

“Havering Council wishes everyone celebrating, a happy and safe Halloween.”