Bedfordshire Police is preparing for one of its busiest times of the year as Halloween and Bonfire Night celebrations approach.
While the season is a source of fun for many, it can also cause distress for others, particularly the elderly, vulnerable people and pets.
The force typically sees a rise in reports of anti-social behaviour during this period and is encouraging everyone to celebrate responsibly and consider how their actions affect others.
Superintendent Lee Haines said: “We want everyone to enjoy the festivities, but we also ask the public to do this in a safe, respectful and legal way. What may be fun for some can be frightening or disruptive for others.
“Our officers will be out across the county to ensure communities feel safe and supported. Our control room teams are also working incredibly hard during this busy period, so we are encouraging people to think before they call.
“Please only contact us if it’s a genuine police matter; that way, we can respond quickly to those who need us most.”
Read: Rockets, rides and rugby: Bedford Blues fireworks and funfair returns
Extra patrols and online reporting
Bedfordshire Police will increase patrols and work closely with local partners to respond swiftly to incidents and provide reassurance to residents.
If you need to report a non-urgent crime, you can do so online at bedfordshire.police.uk/report or by calling 101. Always call 999 in an emergency or if a crime is in progress.
Last year, almost 60 per cent of calls to 999 and 101 during the Halloween period were not police matters. Anyone unsure whether an issue qualifies as an emergency can find guidance at bedfordshire.police.uk/contact.
Halloween safety tips
- Respect others and avoid damaging property.
- Display a “no trick or treating” sign if you do not wish to receive visitors.
- Report concerns via 101 or online; always call 999 if a crime is in progress.
- Hoax or nuisance calls tie up vital emergency lines — please call responsibly.
- If you’re heading out, remember that alcohol is never an excuse for anti-social or violent behaviour.
Firework safety reminders
- Fireworks cannot be bought by anyone under 18, and traders risk losing their licence if they sell illegally.
- It is against the law to set off fireworks at night, except on permitted occasions such as Bonfire Night (5 November) and Diwali.
- Fireworks can only be sold legally at certain times of the year; illegal sale or use can lead to fines or imprisonment.
- Report any unlawful firework activity to the police.
For more information on staying safe this season, visit bedfordshire.police.uk/fireworks.
