Halloween

Halloween

The Tipton Neighbourhood Policing Team has issued official safety guidance to ensure that Halloween remains safe and enjoyable for everyone in Tipton, Great Bridge, and Princes End. 

The West Midlands Police advice focuses on three main areas: trick-or-treaters, elderly or vulnerable residents, and firework safety. 

🎃 Guidance for Trick-or-Treaters

• Be Seen: Wear bright, fluorescent, or reflective clothing, or carry a torch or glow stick. Dark costumes make pedestrians incredibly difficult for drivers to see after dark. 

• Stay Together: Children should always travel in groups and be accompanied by a trusted adult. Stick strictly to well-lit, familiar areas and avoid shortcuts through alleys or parks. 

• Respect Boundaries: Only visit homes that are clearly participating (e.g., displaying Halloween decorations). Do not knock on doors displaying "No Trick or Treat" signs. 

• Safety Over Tricks: Vandalism—such as throwing eggs or flour—damaging property, or using threatening behaviour are criminal offences and will not be tolerated by local patrols. 

🏡 Advice for Vulnerable or Elderly Residents

• Display a Sign: If you do not wish to be disturbed by trick-or-treaters, you can download and print a "No Trick or Treat" graphic directly from the West Midlands Police Website to display in your window.

• Secure Your Home: Keep your door chain fastened, use your spyhole viewer, or communicate through a wireless video doorbell before opening the door. Do not feel pressured to answer the door to unexpected callers.

• Verify Identity: If you receive an unexpected visit from a professional or delivery driver, always ask for official ID to confirm their workplace. 

🎆 Firework & Bonfire Safety

• Public Spaces: It is a strict criminal offence to throw or set off any fireworks (including sparklers) in or into any highway, street, thoroughfare, or public space. 

• Home Displays: Police strongly recommend attending organised community displays rather than hosting them at home. If you do host a private display, keep buckets of sand, water, or fire extinguishers nearby, and remember that fireworks cannot be set off after midnight on Bonfire Night, or after 11 PM on normal nights. 

📞 How to Report Issues

Local officers will be carrying out increased "hotspot" patrols to deter anti-social behaviour over the period. 

• Report anti-social behaviour via the Live Chat feature at West Midlands Police or call the non-emergency number 101.

• In an emergency, always dial 999.

Thank you from Tipton police station.