Trick is not everyone's treat

19 October 2009

Fireworks and Halloween celebrations can be fun but, “Trick or Treat” could turn in to a scary nightmare if anti-social behaviour gets out of hand.

Harlow Council, the Police, Essex Fire and Rescue Services and Essex County Council under the umbrella of the Safer Harlow Partnership will be launching Operation ‘Bang Out of Order’ this week. The annual campaign highlights that whilst the celebrations can be harmless and fun, there is a more sinister side if behaviour goes too far or fireworks are misused.
 
This year, Essex Police and Harlow Council's Community Safety Team will have additional patrols during this period with added support from a designated Anti Social Behaviour Car. The Fire and Rescue Service will make firework storage advisory visits to some of the licensed firework sales premises as part of the Community Fire Service initiative. Educational visits and information will be provided to school children in Harlow, by Essex Fire & Rescue Educational team and Harlow Police. There will also be advice on safety precautions and on the penalties for causing a nuisance through anti social behaviour such as throwing fireworks or “tricks” that turn into criminal damage.

Chairman of the Council’s Environment and Community Committee Cllr Tony Hall said: "While most people look forward to Halloween and fireworks night as a time to celebrate with harmless fun, there are always a few people who act irresponsibly and spoil this, which can lead to criminal offences or, in the case of fireworks, serious injuries. The Safer Harlow Partnership is launching its annual campaign to remind people that they can have fun without it leading to nuisance behaviour."

Senior Fire Divisional Officer Paul Bowers, Community Safety, said: "Fireworks are fun but can be extremely dangerous. Our officers will visit schools and shops in the area to make sure that all fireworks in Harlow are kept and used in a responsible way."

Harlow’s District Commander Chief Inspector Nick Morris says: “Halloween and Bonfire Night can be a great time for family and friends. I would encourage people to only trick or treat at the homes of friends and family. We will have additional patrols during this period of time who will deal positively with people that act in an anti-social manner.”

The launch of Operation – ‘Bang Out of Order’ will involve local children, the emergency services and council officers handing out information and balloons at the Water Gardens (near ASDA) on 24 October 12-2pm.

Anyone that is worried by anti social behaviour during late October – early November is advised to report it on the It’s Your Call Action Line on 0845 605 2222 (call 999 in emergencies only).