Stay Safe During Autumn Festivities

A message from Wandsworth Police .....

Wandsworth Police want everyone to be safe whilst enjoying the autumn festivities. Both Halloween and Firework night can be lots of fun for children and adults alike, but irresponsible behaviour can turn a celebration into a painful memory if care is not taken.

Plans have been put in place to ensure that the law-abiding majority do not have their festivities ruined by a small number of troublemakers. Extra Police Officers will be visible on the streets to deter anti-social behaviour, disorder and crime during this busy time.

Safer Schools Officers will be on hand to reassure and protect young people. In the run up to schools breaking up for half term they will be focused on the end of the school day when large numbers of young people come together on and around the public transport system.

The small minority who are determined to use this period as an opportunity for criminal activity can expect police attention. In particular those who choose to be carry knives and other weapons can expect to be arrested and sent to court.

Advice to Parents and Carers:

Make sure that you know where your children are, and that they know how to behave.
Go with them trick or treating if you can.
Keep fireworks in a safe place.
Report any anti-social behaviour or concerns to your local Safer Neighbourhoods Team.
Attend organised events wherever possible.

Advice to young people:

Enjoy yourselves, but don’t behave in a way that is unacceptable or may cause distress to others.
Ensure that you are safe by staying with others.
Leave your valuable property at home.
Attend organised events where possible.
Avoid knocking on elderly neighbours doors, this can cause them unnecessary worry and even be frightening for them.

Remember, the autumn festivities are nights of tricks and fun - not fear and distress - please behave responsibly.

Safer Neighbourhoods Chief Inspector Tim Harding said, ‘ We hope that children and families can enjoy their time over this period. Additional local police teams will be out on patrol to deal robustly with those who act irresponsibly and put the public in potential danger.’

October 16, 2008