Policing for Halloween
Thu, 2014-10-30
Acting Superintendent Jerome Laws, Officer Responsible for the Community Policing Division – For those who celebrate Halloween the intention is for it to be an enjoyable event – an opportunity for harmless family fun, dressing up in costumes and going through the neighbourhood collecting candy.
First and foremost we want those participating in Halloween activities to be safe. Motorists are advised to slow down to help keep the roads calmer, particularly when traveling through neighbourhoods.
This advice is particularly relevant, as some areas around the island are still without electricity following Tropical Storm Fay and Hurricane Gonzalo, so there may be reduced visibility along some roads.
With increased numbers of pedestrians expected - many of whom will be children dressed in dark costumes - we encourage older children, parents, friends and family to do your part in keeping your young children close by and safe.
We also ask that persons walking along the main roads with young children wear brightly coloured clothing as well as reflective items and strongly encourage the use of flashlights during the hours of darkness. In addition, young children should be accompanied by a responsible parent or guardian whilst out ‘trick or treating.’
During the past three years, the Bermuda Police Service has seen an encouraging decline in the level of anti-social behaviour associated with Halloween festivities and we will be working hard again this year to continue that trend.
As usual police officers will be patrolling throughout the island, monitoring the various Halloween related activities and while the BPS is well positioned to deal with Halloween from an enforcement perspective, I really want to appeal for the community’s cooperation in reducing the necessity for police intervention.
However, we are mindful that there are persons within our community who will attempt to use Halloween as an opportunity to commit crimes that might cause injury to persons and/or damage to property.
The BPS would like to reassure the public that such behaviour will not be tolerated and officers will use all lawful powers to deter and detect anti-social behaviour.
Likewise, all patrons attending Halloween parties are asked to act in a responsible manner. Carefully consider your options and the consequences. If you intend on consuming alcohol - please, do not make the mistake of driving whilst impaired. Poor choices can have long term ramifications.
The Bermuda Police Service, working in partnership with the community, would also like to discourage the throwing of any objects at passing vehicles.
We are aware that eggs, and this year it seems avocados, have already been used.
Shopkeepers are reminded to be wary of persons, particularly those young in age, who attempt to purchase unusually large quantities of eggs.
Throwing eggs or other objects at people or property may seem like a meaningless prank but this irresponsible and dangerous act can cause personal injury and property damage.
Anyone caught engaging in such activity will be arrested by the police immediately.
In closing, the Bermuda Police Service would like to wish those participating in Halloween related activities a safe and enjoyable weekend.
