With Halloween and Bonfire Night around the corner, we’re sharing a few friendly reminders to help everyone enjoy the celebrations and look out for their neighbours.
As the nights draw in and communities prepare for Halloween on 31 October and Bonfire Night on 5 November, we’re reminding everyone that a little thought for our neighbours can make a big difference.
While many people look forward to fancy dress, trick-or-treating and firework displays, this time of year can also bring increased concerns about noise, anti-social behaviour, deliberate fires and the misuse of fireworks.
Through our commitment to building safe, connected communities, Hedyn supports the messages behind Operation Bang, the seasonal initiative involving police, fire and rescue services and community partners to help prevent fire-related incidents and anti-social behaviour.
Halloween – respect your neighbours
Halloween should be enjoyable for everyone, whether they choose to take part or prefer a quiet evening at home.
Gwent Police reminds residents that Halloween and Bonfire Night can cause anxiety for some people, particularly those who feel vulnerable or uncomfortable answering the door to strangers. Loud noises and anti-social behaviour can also affect residents, families and pets.
We’re asking everyone to:
- respect those who do not wish to participate in Halloween activities
- never throw eggs, flour or other objects at homes, vehicles or people
- be considerate of noise and avoid intimidating or threatening behaviour
- parents and carers should know where young people are, who they are with and what they are doing
- look out for neighbours who may need additional reassurance or support
Bonfire night – put safety first
Organised displays offer a great way to enjoy the atmosphere with family and friends, with safety arrangements in place to help manage the risks. Check local listings, council websites and community noticeboards to find an event near you and plan your journey in advance.
If you do attend a display, follow the organisers’ instructions, keep to designated viewing areas and always supervise children.
If you’re planning to use fireworks at home, take extra care:
- follow the instructions on every firework and keep spectators at a safe distance
- never return to a lit firework, even if it appears not to have gone off
- never give sparklers to children under five, and supervise older children carefully
- keep pets indoors and consider neighbours who may find fireworks distressing
- never use petrol or paraffin to light a bonfire and never leave a fire unattended.
Visit South Wales Fire and Rescue Service website for fire safety advice and guidance on reducing risks during the celebrations.
Help us tackle anti-social behaviour
Fire-setting, criminal damage, threatening behaviour and the misuse of fireworks are not harmless fun. They can cause serious injuries, damage homes and leave people feeling unsafe in their own neighbourhoods.
Hedyn encourages residents to report anti-social behaviour in or around their homes so we can assess concerns and work with the relevant partners to address them.
Find information and support through our website. You can also contact Gwent Police to report non-emergency crime or anti-social behaviour or call 101. Always call 999 if someone is in immediate danger or there is a fire emergency.
Make this a season to enjoy
Plan, choose organised events and be considerate of the people around you. By making responsible choices and looking out for one another, we can all help create safer, stronger communities.
This Halloween and Bonfire Night, celebrate together, stay safe and leave the fireworks to the organised displays wherever possible.