Operation Cauldron to keep Halloween safe

Spooky nights and spectacular fireworks are all part of the fun over Halloween and Bonfire Night, and we want you to enjoy the festivities safely.

Lincolnshire Police’s new Operation Cauldron campaign is being run in conjunction with Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service (LFRS), and aims to prevent problems, provide reassurance, and promote safety around Halloween and Bonfire Night.

There will be police patrols in local communities and officers are visiting vulnerable residents to ensure everyone can enjoy themselves.

You can download a free “no trick of treats” poster to display at home, and we’re encouraging parents and guardians to explain what that means to children so that elderly members of the community or vulnerable people are not frightened by unwanted callers.

Polic e would also like to remind people to follow the law and safety advice when it comes to using fireworks. They can be seized if they are not being used responsibly.

Retailers are also being encouraged not to sell eggs and flour to young people, as well as being reminded of the law surrounding the regulation and sale of fireworks, and being given details of how to download a free poster to display in stores.

Download the ‘no trick or treater’ poster

Download the flour, eggs and fireworks poster

Download the fireworks poster 

10 top tips to keeping safe at Halloween

1. Plan your trick or treat route beforehand, go in groups and only visit houses that you know.
2. Keep your tricks within the law – anything that results in damage is an offence and will be dealt with as such.
3. Be visible in the dark, stay in areas that are well lit with streetlights. Take a torch just in case.
4. Don’t wear Halloween masks that restrict your vision when you’re crossing the road.
5. Never go inside a house that you’ve gone trick or treating to.
6. If a house displays a “no trick or treaters”, don’t knock the door, and definitely don’t “trick” them.
7. Use battery operated lights in your pumpkin or for other decorations as they are safer than candles.
8. Keep clear of pumpkins which have candles in as they could cause burns, and don’t wear costumes near candles. 
9. Homemade costumes and some costumes bought in shops can be flammable, so be careful to avoid open flames.
10. Remember ‘STOP, DROP and ROLL’ if clothing catches fire. 

10 top tips to keeping safe on Bonfire Night

1. Know the law on fireworks – you must be over 18 to buy ‘adult fireworks’ in shops and they can only be used in private properties unless you are a licenced professional. See more advice on Fireworks.
2. Used irresponsibly, fireworks can cause damage to property and do significant harm to people and animals. Think of others, and be safe.
3. Never throw fireworks, even as a joke or if it is unlit, and never put them in your pocket.
4. Stand clear of fireworks. Never return to a lit firework. Light fireworks at arm’s length, using a safety firework lighter or fuse wick.
5. If you are going out to a bonfire or firework event, ensure your home looks as occupied as possible, secure your side gate to prevent open access to the rear of your property, make sure you lock doors and windows and, if you have one, set the intruder alarm.
6. Sparklers are not suitable for children under five. Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves.
7. Position bonfires away from sheds, fences and trees, and only adults should light them. Keep a bucket of water handy.
8. Always check there are no small animals or children hiding in the bonfire structure before it is lit.
9. Remember to give yourself enough space for the fireworks you have bought. If you plan to use them in a private garden, check that the space you have is suitable.
10. Keep pets indoors.