Local police give Halloween advice to children and elderly

Coventry police officers are advising children and pensioners how to stay safe during Halloween.



Officers have been visiting Coventry schools in the run up to the annual period of trick or treat.

Youngsters have been told they could be putting themselves at risk by knocking on a stranger’s door and should always make sure they are accompanied by an adult.

They have also been reminded that some residents, particularly the elderly and infirm, may also feel intimidated by people knocking on their door at night or playing tricks when it is dark and they are home alone.

Chief Inspector Mark Powell, of West Midlands Police, said: “Although we encourage the region’s young people to enjoy themselves, it is our primary concern that they stay safe and consider the impact of their behaviour on others.

“Elderly people can feel particularly vulnerable at this time of year when strangers knock on their door or cause disruption. What a young person may consider to be harmless fun can be very frightening to someone who already feels vulnerable.

“We would like the region’s young people to think about their actions and show respect and consideration when trick or treating this year.

“Try to see things from another point of view.”

West Midlands Police officers have provided youngsters with flyers advising them how to stay safe when trick or treating, as well as posters reminding them to think about how their actions can affect other people during Halloween.

Police are also providing elderly and vulnerable residents with ‘no trick or treat cards’ which request trick or treaters do not knock at their door during Halloween.

Those worried about problems caused by ‘trick or treaters’ should try to arrange to visit a friend or relative or invite someone to sit with them, so they are not alone.

Anyone worried, or those who have experienced problems before and will be home alone during Halloween, can call West Midlands Police on their non-emergency number 0345 113 5000 before the night.