Stay Safe This Halloween

West Mercia Police is urging all those wishing to celebrate Halloween this year to respect the wishes of those in their communities who do not wish to take part and also to remain safe themselves.

Residents not wishing to take part should display a specially designed ‘Sorry No Trick or Treat’ poster in their front door or window, which clearly gives the message that they do not wish to participate and will not open the door to trick or treaters.  You can download a poster by clicking on the links at the bottom of the page (opens as a PDF - we've got a black and white version too to save on printing costs).

The posters are being distributed by officers across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Worcestershire and are available from police station front counters. You can also download a version from this website to print out.

To help promote the campaign further to children, we're running a special competition to encourage youngsters to help them understand that not everyone likes being disturbed at Halloween. A separate version of the poster is available for children to colour in.

Top Tips For Kids

Children should not call on houses where the posters are displayed, neither should they cold-call on strangers, as this can put young people at risk and also intimidates and upsets some householders, especially those who are elderly, living alone or who are vulnerable.

All trick or treaters should be aware that disturbing other local residents or throwing objects at people or property are all criminal offences and what may start off as a bit of fun could end up with someone getting a criminal record. The offence of criminal damage can carry the punishment of up to three months in jail or a fine of £2,500 for minor offences or in serious cases up to 10 years in prison.

Parents may want to consider having a fancy-dress themed Halloween party at home with their children as an alternative to trick or treating.

Advice For Residents

• You have the right to say no to trick or treaters
• If you do not wish to take part, display the ‘Sorry No Trick or Treaters’ posters and do not open the door
• Do not open the door to anyone you do not know
• If you open the door, always use the door chain

Safety Tips For Trick Or Treaters

• Never trick or treat alone – always go with an adult
• Do not talk to strangers
• Stay in well-lit areas and make sure you are visible
• Only go to houses where you or your friends know the residents and let them know what time you plan to call
• Do not knock on doors where there is a sign saying ‘Do not disturb’ or ‘Sorry No Trick or Treat’

Get The Posters For Your Door Or Window

• Halloween - No trick or treat (colour version)
• Halloween - No trick or treat (black and white version)