Tips for a safe and happy Halloween

Halloween can be great fun, especially for kids. And lots of us enjoy seeing local children out trick or treating in their costumes. However, for some people, it can be a worry – especially if they’re home alone and concerned about callers after dark.

While none of us wants to spoil the fun, we also shouldn’t have to feel scared or anxious in our own homes. Here are some simple things we can all do to make sure Halloween remains good fun for everyone.

If you're concerned about staying safe:

• Always put the door chain on and look out of the window or spy hole to see who's there before opening the door.
• Take particular care if there's more than one person on your doorstep.
• Only open the door if you feel safe to do so. If you're in any doubt or don't feel safe, don't – it's fine not to answer the door if you don't want to.
• If you're really worried, invite a friend or relative around and spend the evening together. 

If you're out trick or treating:

• Remember that some older people and other members of your community might not want to be disturbed. A good rule of thumb is to look for a pumpkin outside the house – that's a sign the house is happy to receive trick or treaters.
• Be mindful of noise late at night.
• Don't persistently ring someone's doorbell, knock on their door or return to their house later. If they don't answer, it's best to move on.