Sussex Police urge people to be responsible this Halloween
The force is suggesting alternative ways people can still enjoy the spooky celebration this weekend.
People in Sussex are being urged to be responsible this Halloween.
Halloween celebrations are likely to be a bit different this year because of the coronavirus pandemic restrictions.
There are concerns about rising COVID-19 infection rates across the county and the traditions of trick-or-treating posing a risk.
Sussex Police are urging people to enjoy safer ways of celebrating Halloween.
The force is suggesting some alternatives that mean people can still enjoy Halloween:
Sussex Police is also reminding people that if they are getting involved in Halloween activities over this period they should be considerate to their neighbours and respectful of others’ property.
For some elderly and vulnerable people, or those living alone, some people’s behaviour at this time can be intimidating.
To make it easy to see who does not wish to be disturbed, Sussex Police have produced some posters, which can be found here.
The force has said there is often an increase in anti-social behaviour at this time of year, which can "distress and worry" many residents.
Sussex Police will have an increased number of patrols.
Anybody with COVID-19 symptoms, thinks they may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, or has been told to self-isolate, should not take part in any in-person Halloween festivities and should not give out sweets to trick-or-treaters.
Chief Inspector Jon Carter said:
"This year we are urging people to celebrate Halloween in a responsible way and adhere to social distancing guidelines.
"We are here to make sure that everyone can still enjoy Halloween by focussing our resources in the right places and working closely with our partners and communities.
"We will also be engaging, explaining and encouraging people to act responsibly, reminding them to follow COVID-19 guidelines and following the rule of six.
"There will be increased patrols to deter any anti-social behaviour and provide a reassuring presence; officers will be quick to disperse groups of people who are found to be causing a nuisance.
"It is important to stress that the majority of people behave safely and responsibly, however, we will not tolerate antisocial behaviour and will take action where necessary."
People can find out more about anti-social behaviour and the support available online.
Communities can also work together to prevent crime, by joining an existing Neighbourhood Watch scheme or becoming a coordinator.
To find out more about Neighbourhood Watch, visit their website.
Anti-social behaviour can be reported to police online or 999 in an emergency.