Halloween should be a fun night when adults take children from door to door and people play harmless pranks. Sometimes however, people overstep the mark and light-hearted mischief turns into damaged property. Trick-or-treaters can therefore expect to see more Police officers on the streets this Halloween - to ensure that the evening is enjoyed in the 'spirit' in which it is intended!

On a cautionary note, readers are reminded that Hallowe'en is essentially a night for children to enjoy. Police officers expect to see children wearing masks, but not adults. Adults who are seen wearing masks in public on Hallowe'en night, are therefore likely to draw close scrutiny from Police officers!

Hallowe'en safety begins at home

l Ensure your home is well-lit - both inside and out - to prevent injuries to trick-or-treaters and to deter vandalism;

in the interests of safety, keep your yard free of obstacles - tools and ladders should be kept under lock and key;

keep candles and Jack O' Lanterns away from flammable materials and areas in which children might walk or stand;

don't leave your pets out in the yard on Hallowe'en night;

don't dress your pets in costumes and don't feed them candy;

report any acts of animal abuse or cruelty to the Police immediately;

make sure that children are always accompanied by an adult;

carry a flashlight;

stay in familiar neighbourhoods

choose well-lit streets and use sidewalks whenever possible;

only approach houses which are lit and don't cut across yards and driveways;

explain to children the differences between harmless 'tricks' and 'vandalism' (good and bad behaviour);

warn your children not to eat their candies until you have personally checked them;

ensure costumes are made of flame-retardant materials;

wear light, reflective clothing or a reflective tape that will glow in a car's headlights;

make sure that accessories such as knives and swords are made from cardboard or flexible materials to avoid causing injuries;

face masks should not restrict vision;

Any person who oversteps the mark and uses Hallowe'en as an excuse to damage property will be liable to arrest and could even face a court appearance.

Extra uniformed and plain clothed Police officers will be deployed before and during Halloween night to ensure that the celebration is enjoyed by all.

@EDITRULE:

Det. Sgt. Chris Wilcox

Bermuda Police Drug & Crime Prevention Unit