Halloween safety advice issued to trick or treaters in Honiton

Devon and Cornwall Police and Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service are encouraging those who celebrate Halloween in Honiton to make it a safe and enjoyable time for everyone.

The police are encouraging trick or treaters to have fun this Halloween but remember that not everyone wants you to call at their home.

They may have a sleeping child, nervous pet or feel vulnerable. Pumpkins and decorations are a good sign they want to join in, but if the house is in darkness or has a poster politely declining trick or treaters, you should move on.

The 'Sorry, no trick or treat this Halloween' poster can be downloaded by clicking the red button below and printed and placed in the front door or window of your home if you do not want callers this Halloween.

Superintendent Jacqueline Hawley from the Devon and Cornwall Police Prevention Department said: "In recent years we've seen an increase in the number of people participating in Halloween fun.

"We ask everyone who's going trick-or-treating to think about other people, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, as they may get worried or even frightened if strangers are continually calling at their door during the evening.

"We ask people not to call at homes displaying the 'Sorry, no trick or treat' poster and not to be persistent if your requests are declined."

You can also download and print a poster which indicates that accompanied children in costume are welcome at your home.

To have a fun and safe Halloween, follow these top tips:

-Adults: always accompany your children when they are trick-or-treating.

-Keep to places that you know and are well lit. Do not take short cuts through gardens, alleyways or parks.

-If you are wearing a mask make sure that you can see where you are going and are aware of your surroundings.

-Be careful of lantern flames igniting costumes. Ideally, use battery powered LED candles. Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service and Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service both have advice about dressing up safely this Halloween.

The fire service would like to remind everyone dressing up in fancy dress for Halloween to be aware of the issue surrounding fire safety and fancy dress costumes.

Each year many adults and children are injured in accidents where lighted candles or fireworks have ignited flammable costumes and hair.

Here is Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service's Top Tips for Halloween dressing:

-Keep away from naked flames - avoid using a naked flame or candle in pumpkins; use a torch, glow stick or battery operated candle.

-Choose a costume and mask that doesn't restrict your child's vision.

-Avoid capes, trains, and dangling sleeves. These can drag and brush against a naked flame such as a candle and also pose the risk of a tripping hazard.

-Use caution when creating homemade costumes. Stick with polyester, nylon, wool, and acrylic fabrics and make sure the costumes are not loose-fitting.

-Don't use refuse sacks/bin liners as capes or dresses.