Latest News

#ProtectRespectEnjoy – Op Bang 2021

Published: 28/10/2021

With celebrations for Halloween and Bonfire Night upon us, North Wales Police are once again working with partners including the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Flintshire County Council to help ensure a safe and enjoyable time for everyone.

Pumpkin-carving, fancy dress and watching fireworks are often highlights in the family calendar, however Halloween and Bonfire Night are not fun for everyone and leave many members of our community feeling anxious, intimidated and fearful.

With a small minority using Halloween and Bonfire as an excuse to commit anti-social behaviour, North Wales Police are urging parents and carers to take an interest in their children’s plans to ensure they’re acting responsibly and not risking falling foul of the law. The consequences of antisocial behaviour and criminality can have a lasting impact on a young person’s life, and on those affected by their actions.

The period is traditionally busy for the emergency services across Wales and Police Officers, PCSO’s and Special Constabulary will continue to be visible in our communities in the run up to, and during the festivities to help prevent and detect antisocial behaviour.

Spooktacular tips for Trick or Treaters:

• Young children should always go trick or treating with an appropriate adult
• Plan your route and let people know where you are
• Do not take short cuts
• Make sure you stay in areas that are well lit with street lamps, and take a torch with you
• Never go into a stranger’s house 
• Please respect residents who choose not to take part
• Don’t talk to strangers on the street 
• Be careful not to frighten vulnerable people, especially the elderly 
• Ensure you are always visible; it may be a good idea to wear reflective tape on your costume so that you are seen by motorists
• Look carefully before crossing the road 
• Remember that throwing eggs and flour at property is classed as criminal damage - and the police will deal with all incidents of anti-social behaviour accordingly
• Attending an organised display is the safest way to enjoy fireworks
• It’s an offence to sell or give Fireworks to anyone under the age of 18. You can be fined or imprisoned for buying or using fireworks illegally
• It is also an offence to set off fireworks in a public place