Halloween and Bonfire BANG Campaign

North Wales Police and partners are once again joining forces to promote safe Halloween and Bonfire Night celebrations.

The Force is working with North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Community Safety Partnerships and local councils to promote key messages through the ‘Be a Nice Guy’ initiative.

This approach, along with targeted diversionary activities which engage young people in fun and entertaining events, can be very effective in ensuring that everyone can enjoy themselves safely.

Throughout North Wales a variety of Halloween and Bonfire activities are being organised by Local Policing Teams and partners which have been financially supported by the Arson Reduction Team, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and North Wales Police in partnership with the Police and Community Trust (PACT).

Special posters – including a poster asking Trick or Treaters to move on – are currently being distributed by Local Policing Teams across the force area.

School Community Police Officers throughout North Wales are talking to young people in schools and youth clubs about how their behaviour can affect others. They are also reminding them to keep themselves safe if they go out trick or treating. Bookmarks and postcards which contain advice have also been produced.

Inspector Julie Sheard of the Force Community Safety Unit said: “We are working closely with their communities to ensure that those who want to have fun on Halloween can do so without causing upset to others.

“By placing a sign in the window people will know a resident’s preference and those who would rather keep their doors closed on Halloween night should not be disturbed.

“We know the majority of people enjoy this time of year sensibly and we are not out to spoil their fun, but unfortunately there is a minority who are intent on causing problems and use Bonfire Night as an excuse to commit crime and act anti-socially.

“To ensure the safety of all, we would also encourage residents to attend organised firework displays, which will be well publicised in the local press prior to November 5th.”

Terry Williams, Head of Community Safety for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said; “Every year, countless people are badly injured and burnt in the run up to the bonfire season when lighting bonfires and setting off fireworks. Organised community events in North Wales definitely provide the best value for money for entertainment and also ensure that families no longer need to risk the dangers of back garden bonfire and fireworks parties.

“It is illegal to sell fireworks to anyone under the age of eighteen years old. Many types of fireworks are banned from sale to the public. Throwing fireworks in a public place is also illegal – a fine of up to £5000 awaits anyone convicted.”

For a list of all organised firework displays across North Wales please visit the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service website www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk