Torbay's Halloween and Bonfire Night advice

TORBAY council today unveiled action plans to make sure Halloween and Bonfire Nights can be the "fangtastic" events they are supposed to be.

The celebrations can leave some people feeling frightened and intimidated, say the council, and on occasions there can also be injuries, in particular related to Bonfire Night.

This year Safer Communities Torbay is bringing agencies, organisations and communities together across Torbay to make sure everybody enjoys the celebrations for all the right reasons.

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Councillor Robert Excell, Torbay Council's Executive Lead for Safer Communities, said: "Halloween and Bonfire Night are great fun, but unfortunately there is always a risk that a minority will use the celebrations as an excuse to act irresponsibly.

"In advance of celebrations like these, Safer Communities Torbay brings together agencies like the police, the fire service and registered social landlords to put in place action plans to reduce the likelihood of issues such as anti-social behaviour.

"This year we are also making available 'No Trick, No Treat, No Thanks' posters for residents to display at their homes if they wish.

"We would like everyone in Torbay to be able to enjoy their Halloween and Bonfire Nights, whether they decide to take part in the celebrations or avoid them completely."

Activities that agencies will be carrying out to prevent and respond to anti-social behaviour include representation by Devon and Cornwall Police on fire appliances, clearing any unauthorised bonfires from land, increased patrols around parks and open spaces, targeting of patrols by police and street wardens, and delivery of safety talks to young people.

Partnership Sergeant Louise Costin said: "Everybody in Torbay deserves the opportunity to celebrate the upcoming festivities in a safe environment. Those choosing to avoid the celebrations should also have their wishes respected. Anti-social behaviour or other disorder will not be tolerated in Torbay.

"We are asking all residents to support our activities, and there are certain simple things that people can do. On Halloween we would advise all parents to check the whereabouts of their children, and to ensure that children are accompanied by a responsible adult when Trick or Treating.

"We do know that in some areas community groups are holding Halloween parties so residents may wish to check out what’s happening in their neighbourhood.

"During the run up to and on Halloween we would also urge all shopkeepers to remember their right to refuse to sell eggs and flour to any person they believe doesn’t plan to make a cake, but intends to use the items for anti-social purposes.

"For Bonfire Night we would ask residents to report areas where they think illegal bonfires may be being built to Torbay Council on telephone 01803 207900. Although it’s not always possible we would also suggest that residents ensure that their bins are secure and not easily accessible from the highway."

Anyone wishing to find out more about Halloween and Bonfire Night safety or to download a 'No Trick No Treat No Thanks' can go online to get one.