From young children dressing up as witches and spooks to groups of friends enjoying a themed party, celebrating Halloween (October 31) is increasing in popularity each year.

But for some people, including older people, who may feel more vulnerable after dark, and for those who simply do not welcome groups of trick or treaters knocking on their doors, Halloween can be daunting.

As a result, Hampshire Constabulary and the Safer North Hampshire community safety team have issued advice and tips for parents and children who intend to go out trick or treating on Halloween night, and a poster to download for those people who would like to discourage people from door-knocking them.

Parents and children are asked to be mindful that some of the more vulnerable or elderly members of the community do not wish to participate in Halloween activities and in fact may feel intimidated by groups of people calling at their doors. Local shops are also displaying posters, reminding shoppers that eggs or flour will not be sold to under-16s in the days leading up to October 31.

Hampshire Constabulary has the following advice for parents:
• If your child is going outside in a costume – make sure they are wearing reflective clothing or add reflective tape to their clothes.
• Carry a torch and consider road safety at all times.
• If your child is going out trick or treating – make sure they go out in a group, preferably accompanied by an adult.
• Older children should let you know where they are going and what time they will be back.
• Children should carry a mobile phone in a pocket or bag.
• Make sure your children know not to enter anyone’s house or to accept lifts from strangers.

Councillor John Kennett, chair of the Safer North Hampshire Partnership, said: “We want everyone to enjoy Halloween, whether they wish to mark the event or seek to simply ignore it. For those who want to celebrate the occasion, please follow our advice and ensure your children are under your supervision at all times, and for those who want to be left alone, display a ‘no trick or treat’ poster clearly in your window, and do not open the door.”

The following advice, from Hampshire Constabulary, is aimed at older or vulnerable members of the community staying at home this Halloween:
• If you do not know who is calling at your house, you do not need to open the door.
• Try to see who is at the door by looking through a spy hole or window before opening the door.
• If you have a chain on your door – keep this in place when opening the door.
• If you feel threatened in your home, please contact the police.

People who do not want to be disturbed by trick or treaters this Halloween can download and print a copy of the “No trick or treat” poster here.