POLICE have given safety advice for people planning to celebrate Halloween.

Young trick-or-treaters should be accompanied by an adult, only visit houses of people they know who are happy to have visitors, keep to places which are well-lit, avoid taking shortcuts through alleyways, gardens and parks, be wary of traffic, and carry a charged mobile phone and torch.

Anyone wearing masks as part of their spooky costume should ensure they can see where they are going and are aware of their surroundings.

Superintendent Liz Coles said: “We hope that those celebrating Halloween or out ‘trick or treating’ have a fun and safe evening, but I would encourage everyone to take care when out.

“Halloween is an enjoyable evening for some, however for others particularly elderly and vulnerable residents, and those living on their own it can be distressing or frightening time.

“It doesn’t matter if it is Halloween or any other day there is no excuse for making people feel scared or frightened, or damaging other people’s property.

“If you are out ‘trick or treating’ this Halloween please consider carefully which doors you knock on.

“As with previous years those happy to take part usually decorate their homes, and if the lights are off or there is a ‘no thanks’ posters up, please be respectful."

Homeowners who feel nervous or unsafe should not open their door if they are unsure who is there, or use the door spy-hole or look out of a window to check, and use the door-chain if they do decided to open it.

Have a contact number of a close relative or good neighbour by the phone, just in case you need to phone them.

If you are part of a Neighbourhood Watch scheme, let your coordinator know that you will be on your own at Halloween. If you are a coordinator, identify people in your scheme that may be vulnerable and offer them reassurance.

Superintendent Coles added: “Parents and carers have an important role to play to help keep children and young people safe during the Halloween period. Please have conversations with your children to help them understand that Halloween is not celebrated by everyone, whilst encouraging them to act responsibly.

“I would ask shops and supermarkets to consider the sale of eggs and flour to children and young people in the lead up to Halloween. It may just be a bit of fun and make a mess, but it can be damaging to vehicles and property, and cause real distress.

“During the Halloween period, our community policing teams across the county will be carrying out additional patrols targeting those involved in anti-social behaviour.

If you don’t want trick or treaters at your door this Halloween, ‘No trick or treat’ posters are available to download and display in your home, or homes of any neighbours or relatives. It should be displayed in a prominent position either on the front door or front window. Download the poster from the Wiltshire Police website at www.wiltshire.police.uk.