Stay safe and vigilant this Halloween in Buckinghamshire
Police want to prevent anti-social behaviour and ensure everyone enjoys festivities responsibly
Thames Valley Police are urging residents to stay safe and remain vigilant this Halloween to help prevent anti-social behaviour and ensure everyone enjoys the festivities responsibly.
The local force highlighted that they want everyone to enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night, but with an increase in demand for emergency services, they are asking for cooperation in keeping communities safe.
There approach this autumn includes:
High-visibility patrols in key areas to deter disruptive behaviour, Working with local councils to identify and respond to hotspots, engaging with young people through schools and youth services to promote respectful behaviour, Swift enforcement where necessary, including issuing dispersal orders and taking action against repeat offenders and encouraging community reporting to help them respond quickly and effectively.
There are key legal restrictions also in place to help keep people safe...
It is illegal to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am, except on specific occasions.
On Bonfire Night, 5 November, the curfew is extended until midnight.
On New Year’s Eve, Diwali, and Chinese New Year, fireworks may be used until 1am.
Anyone found breaching these curfews may face enforcement action.
Fireworks are also subject to age restrictions. You must be aged 18 or over to buy or possess adult fireworks, which fall under Categories 2 and 3. Category 4 fireworks are strictly for professional use and cannot be sold to the public under any circumstances.
Harry Gehnich, Neighbourhood Inspector for High Wycombe, said:
“Neighbourhood policing teams will be out and about in High Wycombe, and also across Buckinghamshire, engaging with communities, offering reassurance and working to prevent any incidents of anti-social behaviour.
“We want to be clear that Halloween is not an excuse for disruptive or anti-social behaviour. Anyone found to be causing issues will be dealt with proportionately but robustly.
“Following last year’s Halloween and Bonfire Night season, six arrests were made in High Wycombe for offences including violent disorder, arson, criminal damage and assault.
“Our officers are committed to ensuring that residents feel safe both in public and in their homes during this period. We encourage everyone to enjoy Halloween responsibly and respectfully.”
It is also an offence to set off or throw fireworks – including sparklers – in public places such as streets and parks and any offenders can face an unlimited fine, up to six months in prison or and on the spot £90 fine.