Warnings on bonfire safety and Halloween (From Bridport and Lyme Regis News)

Warnings on bonfire safety and Halloween

10:00am Wednesday 31st October 2012 in Lyme Regis By Adrianne Maslen

LYME Regis Police have warned that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated this Halloween and Bonfire Night.

Officers will be carrying out extra patrols tonight and in the days leading up to and on Bonfire Night on Monday to deter troublemakers.

Police have also warned retailers they could be fined and prosecuted if they are caught selling fireworks to under 18s.

They will be on the lookout for anyone with flour and eggs and making sure trick or treaters avoid houses where there are signs asking people not to knock.

Neighbourhood beat manager PC Kirsti Ball said: “Anyone who engages in anti-social behaviour should be warned that it will not be tolerated.

“We will be increasing patrols on the night and the consequences of engaging in such activities will be dealt with seriously.

“We have already distributed some leaflets for residents to place in their doors and windows asking not to be called upon by trick or treaters, and we will distribute further leaflets in the Tourist Information Centre and other shops within the town over the next few days for people to pick up if they wish.”

PC Ball said families could make Halloween a safe and enjoyable time by following a simple code: n Always trick or treat with an adult.

Do not knock on doors where there is a sign saying ‘Sorry no trick or treat here please’.

Stay in areas that are well lit with street lights. Take a torch with you just in case.

Do not enter any house – stay on the doorstep.

Be careful not to frighten vulnerable people, especially the elderly PC Ball warned that anyone caught vandalising anything or throwing eggs and flour could face prison. She said: “This type of behaviour will not be tolerated and you could end up getting into trouble with the police.

“Many people don’t realise that by throwing eggs and flour at someone’s property, they may be causing criminal damage – an offence which can result in a three month jail sentence or a fine of up to £2,500.”

PC Ball is also advising people how to stay safe and out of trouble on Bonfire Night.

She said: “Our Safer Neighbourhood Teams will be carrying our extra patrols over the Bonfire Night period and anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated.

“We want everyone to enjoy Bonfire Night this year, but if members of the public have any concerns they can contact Dorset Police on 101. Only dial 999 in an emergency.

“Members of the public are reminded that it is an offence for anyone under the age of 18 to buy fireworks, or to have them in their possession in a public place, which could result in a large fine. “Retailers will also be liable to prosecution if they are found selling fireworks to anyone under the age of 18.”

Safety Tips

Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks
Keep fireworks in a closed box
Follow the instructions on each firework
Light at arm’s length, using a taper
Stand well back
Never go near a firework that has been lit.
Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode
Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them
Always supervise children around fireworks
Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves
Never give sparklers to a child under five
Keep pets indoors