Emergency services launch OpBang! ahead of busy Halloween period

With Halloween and Bonfire Night just around the corner, emergency services across north Wales are working to ensure everyone celebrates the occasions in a safe and responsible way.

This time of year often sees a rise in calls made to North Wales Police and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, with both services expecting a busier few weeks than usual.

Whilst Halloween and Bonfire Night are an exciting and fun time for many, it can leave others in the community feeling anxious, intimidated and fearful.

#OpBang is an annual campaign whereby partners and local authorities will be working together to help reduce incidents of anti-social behaviour over the coming weeks.

Every year police forces encounter problems with anti-social behaviour.

Ahead of the seasonal activities North Wales Police are urging parents and carers to take an interest in their children’s plans to ensure they’re acting responsibly and not causing issues in the community.

In preparation for #OpBang officers from Neighbourhood Policing Teams across North Wales have been engaging with young people in schools and youth clubs, organising diversionary activities with the help of funding from the Police and Community Trust (PACT).

Work over the period will also include promoting key messages about being considerate and respectful to all members of the community and reinforcing that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, as well as safety messages for children.

Shopkeepers are also being encouraged not to sell flour and eggs to unaccompanied children in the days running up to the 31st October.

Inspector Geraint Richards said: “We hope that this year, as has been the case on previous years, people take a responsible attitude to Halloween and Bonfire Night.

“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 the festivities as an excuse to commit crime and act anti-socially.

“We want to work with our communities to ensure that they can enjoy themselves safely.

“Our teams, alongside partners, will be out and about across the region – helping to educate, reassure and keep our communities safe.

“To stay updated and to help with our engagement, please register to receive Community Alerts.”

Demand on emergency services rise significantly during the Halloween and Bonfire period. To help us keep our lines free for those who need us most, please ensure you’re contacting the most relevant agency and using the most appropriate means of contact.

Inspector Richards added: “We have designed posters for people to display in their windows, and I would encourage you all to download these from our website and print for elderly relatives or neighbours.

“If you see a poster being displayed asking for trick or treaters not to call, please respect their request to be left alone.”

Further information regarding PACT is available via the North Wales Police and Community Trust.