Stay safe this spooky season

As autumn settles in, the excitement for Halloween and Bonfire Night starts to build. While these events are lots of fun, they can also bring some challenges when it comes to keeping homes and neighborhoods safe. Whether you're planning a night of trick-or-treating, enjoying fireworks, or just want a peaceful evening at home, we've put together some simple tips to help you stay safe and stress-free. Remember, the clocks go back at 2am on Sunday 27th October so it will be darker earlier too.

'Mischief Night' - Wednesday 30th October 

Mischief Night on the 30th October sees some young people taking part in normally harmless pranks or tricks. Activities might include doorbell ringing, throwing eggs, or minor acts of vandalism. This can sometimes lead to anti-social behavior, so communities are encouraged to stay vigilant and take steps to protect their homes during this time:

• Lock all doors and windows before evening sets in, including garden gates and garages.
• Turn on any external lights to deter unwanted visitors.
• Make sure valuables, such as bicycles or garden tools, are stored securely in sheds or garages.
• If you have gates or fences, make sure they are locked. Consider putting away bins or ladders that could be used to access higher areas.
• Make sure bins are not left outside unnecessarily overnight, as they can be tipped over or used to climb over fences. Store them securely in your garden or garage if possible.
• Any incidents of anti-social behaviour should be reported to the police.

Halloween - Thursday 31st October 

• Keep costumes away from candles and flames as they can be flammable. If clothing does catch fire, children should ‘Stop, drop and roll’ and this could be practiced with parents at home before the event.
• Halloween costumes for children should only be bought from a reputable retailer. Check the product for safety markings and look for a flame-resistant label.
• Make sure you can be seen in dark. Use reflective tape and glowsticks to make yourself more visible, especially when near roads.
• Consider using a battery-powered candle for your pumpkin for extra safety.
• If using candles, ensure they are fully extinguished before you leave the house.
• Make sure fire-escape routes are kept clear of Halloween decorations

Bonfire Night - Tuesday 5th November 

• Never return to a lit firework or throw them into bonfires
• Stand well back from fireworks and bonfires
• It is not recommended to give sparklers to children under five
• Always wear gloves when holding sparklers
• Hold sparklers at arm’s length, away from the face
• Always have a bucket of water or sand nearby to put the sparkler in, hot end down, once it has gone out
• Never throw a sparkler onto the floor
• Keep pets indoors

• Don’t set off noisy fireworks late at night and never after 11pm

Organised fireworks displays are more fun and safer than hosting your own fireworks or bonfire party.

However, if you are planning on using fireworks for a private event please familiarise yourself with the Fireworks Safety Code to ensure you keep everyone safe.

If you need to report an emergency repair, we have an out of hours phoneline that is available 24/7 on 0800 169 2988.