Spooky season is upon us – but it’s not a game that everyone wants to play
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As we prepare for one of our busiest times of the year, we’re reminding our communities to respect others and look out for their neighbours
From pumpkin picking to trick or treating, Halloween brings a whole cauldron full of fun, scares and joy to many in Gwent.
But for others, it can be a time of fear, intimidation and vulnerability.
That’s why, as we prepare our patrols, operations and engagement events for the week, we’re encouraging people to be considerate of others and respectful of their wishes.
Officers are delivering our ‘no callers’ posters on request to people living in our communities, which lets your neighbours know that you would prefer not to be disturbed.
We want everyone to enjoy themselves safely and responsibly – and will take action against those intent on acting anti-socially.
Chief Superintendent Carl Williams said:
“You will see lots of Police Officers and PCSOs on patrol throughout this time and we hope to see many people enjoying their evenings in a safe manner.
"What we ask is that people be responsible, stay safe and be considerate of their neighbours as we know that Halloween and Bonfire Night is not a game that everyone wants to play.
“This is commonly one of our busiest periods of the year, one where reports of anti-social behaviour tend to increase.
“Last year, between Halloween and Bonfire Night, we received nearly 300 reports of people acting in an anti-social manner.
“This is completely unacceptable. It can intimidate and make the lives of people miserable, but it can also take up a lot of valuable police time and delay us from getting to vulnerable people who need urgent care or protection.
"While the vast majority of people will enjoy the night responsibly and look out for their neighbours, we’ll continue our work to address any problems such as crime and public safety.
"ASB and criminal damage will never be tolerated, and we'll be working with South Wales Fire and Rescue Service over the period to ensure fireworks are being used responsibly.”
If you’re concerned about crime or ant-social behaviour in your area, please contact us via our website, social media accounts or by calling 101.
In an emergency, always call 999.
Download our posters
As part of this year's campaign, our neighbourhood policing teams will soon be distributing printed posters throughout the community.
If you do not get to see one of our officers, you can find the posters here to print yourselves.
If you would prefer not to have trick or treaters calling at your home this Halloween, download and print our "no callers" poster to display in your window. We also have other printable resources to display at your business or community hub in the lead up to Halloween 2024.