Download a Lancashire Police poster to keep trick or treaters at bay this Hallowe'en (From Chorley Citizen)

Download a Lancashire Police poster to keep trick or treaters at bay this Hallowe'en

8:00am Wednesday 31st October 2012 in East Lancashire

TRICK-or-treaters in East Lancashire are being warned by police to keep themselves safe during witching hour this Hallowe’en.

In a poster that teaches youngsters to follow the ‘Hallowe’en Code’, police have set out simple instructions designed to keep ‘little monsters’ safe across the county.

Children have been encouraged not to go trick or treating alone and to stick to well lit areas, despite how tempting the dark appears.

Download the poster here: halloween poster.pdf

Police have also warned about the dangers of breaking into smaller groups, meeting strangers and entering strange houses.

A Lancashire police spokesman, said: “Hallowe’en is renowned for the trick or treat tradition and whilst we don’t want to ruin anyone’s fun, we want everyone to be safe and feel safe.

“For those who do want to celebrate, officers have created the Hallowe’en Code that gives young people the information they need to be safe.”

Residents not wanting to be bothered by trick-or-treaters are also asked to display the poster which states ‘Do not disturb, Happy Hallowe’en, Trick or Treaters, Hope you have a nice Halloween, but please do not call here’.

Officers hope the poster will also help to keep vulnerable members of the community safe.

A police spokseman added: “From speaking to members of our local communities, we know that some of our more vulnerable and elderly members of the community feel a little apprehensive at this time of year so as we approach the Hallowe’en and Bonfire period, increased highly visible police patrols will be on duty to deal with any incidents of anti social behaviour.

“We will also be making posters available to those who would rather not have a visit from trick or treaters and we would ask revelers to politely abide by them.”

Visitors to Pendle Hill are also being advised that police have implemented a one way system over Nick O’Pendle, from the A59 Clitheroe to Sabden.