Blue Lights Collaborate for Safety

Blue Lights collaborate for Hallowe'en and Bonfire safety brilliance

Cheshire Constabulary and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service are joining forces this year to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable Hallowe'en and Bonfire Night.

The blue light services are working together to crack down on anti-social behaviour and amplify key fire safety advice to ensure that Hallowe'en and Bonfire night go off with the right sort of bang.

Superintendent Martin Cleworth, who heads up the Constabulary's Task Force, said: "Hallowe'en and Bonfire night are one of the busiest times for officers dealing with anti-social behaviour. We want to remind and encourage the younger members of our community to enjoy this time of year safely and to behave responsibly.

"It is important that everybody respects their local community and residents who do not wish to be disturbed by trick or treaters. If you see a clear sign which states 'No trick or treaters', or no pumpkins or other decorations, please respect that person inside by not knocking on their door. Indeed, if the door is not answered at all, please accept that they do not wish to participate and move on to the next house.

"In the run-up to and during this period, officers will be deployed across the county to provide reassurance and do all they can to ensure that everyone has fun -- without causing disruption to the community."

Colin Heyes, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service's Arson Reduction Manager, added: "During the Hallowe'en period, we want to remind parents that some children's Hallowe'en costumes can be extremely flammable, there have been some horrific accidents in recent years.

"Check the labelling in any costumes you buy, and tell your child to take care when near an open flame. Also, consider using LED lights in pumpkins instead of candles. If you do use candles, be extra careful both inside and outside the home.

"Bonfires and nuisance fires can quickly spiral out of control causing devastation to the community and even risking lives. If possible, attend an organised display rather than holding bonfires and hosting firework displays at home. Professional displays are bigger, brighter and much safer for yourself and your local community.

"We have seen a positive improvement in the number of incidents attended across the Hallowe'en and Bonfire periods, but last year we still had almost 100 incidents of fire related anti social behaviour and out of control bonfires. Through working in partnership with our police colleagues, we aim to increase our visibility across the period to reach an even wider community."

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