Suffolk police has reissued its reminder to trick or treaters to be considerate of those not wanting to take part in the spooky festivities tomorrow.
Two Halloween posters have been released to help residents advertise if trick or treaters are welcome to knock on their door tonight.
While the majority of those taking part in the celebrations do so with good intentions, the seasonal high spirits can sometimes cross the line and become intimidating.
The force has also confirmed that there will be increased police patrols tonight to help deter anti-social behaviour.
Chief Inspector Stuart Grimsey said: “We hope that this year people will take a responsible attitude to Halloween. While we don’t want youngsters to think we are picking on them or trying to spoil their fun, it is important that everyone understands the consequences of irresponsible behaviour for themselves and others.
“If you are planning to go out trick or treating, please make sure you only visit those who are happy to take part and please respect residents who may not want to be disturbed.
“We are also appealing to the public in general to be a little more tolerant of the behaviour of those celebrating Halloween.
“We would also like to remind people that anyone carrying out activities that may scare members of the public could be committing public order offences and may be subject to arrest.
“There will be extra patrols throughout the county and each area has a specific set of initiatives for tackling any disturbances caused by unruly celebrations. Officers on patrol will be looking out for unsafe or irresponsible behaviour, particularly offences such as egg throwing or people setting off fireworks in public places – particularly as Bonfire Night falls in the same week.”
Retailers across the county are also being encouraged to restrict the sale of eggs and flour to young people.
Suffolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore said: “Trick-or-treating can be great fun, and I don’t want to spoil that fun, but I would ask that those taking part keep themselves safe and be respectful to others.
“For those on the receiving end of trick-or-treaters, particularly the old and vulnerable, it can be quite an upsetting experience. My message to anyone planning to go trick-or-treating is, by all means enjoy yourselves and have fun, but please give some thought to those who don’t want to join in. The safest option is to only visit people you know.”
To download and print any of the posters, visit www.suffolk.police.uk/news/latest-news/25-10-2017/treat-others-fun-not-frights-halloween
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here