Police are urging anyone celebrating Halloween to make sure they don’t let festivities get out of control or degenerate into social conflict and the committing of crimes.
And when it comes to a nuisance practice becoming popular on the day – throwing eggs at houses or passing cars – Police suggest a pre-Halloween ban on egg sales at service stations and convenience shops.
“Throwing eggs is classified as ‘malicious damage’ … if you are found throwing eggs at houses or vehicles you may be charged with ‘wilful damage’,” Acting Sergeant Rebecca McMeniman said.
“It would be nice for service stations and corner shops to not sell eggs to children the night of Halloween.”
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“There were three wilful damage complaints made in relation to Halloween last year … police will be patrolling the district and this behaviour will not be tolerated.”
Police said it’s also important for ‘trick or treaters’ to respect that Halloween remains a controversial celebration for some residents, cultures and those who hold certain religious beliefs.
“Please be aware that not everyone celebrates Halloween,” Acting Sgt McMeniman said.
“The celebration is becoming more and more popular every year and the Queensland Police Service are wanting our little ‘trick or treaters’ to be safe.”
For those wanting signage for their homes, the Queensland Police Service has created specific Halloween posters for download, saying ‘Welcome’ or ‘No Thanks’.
The household Halloween posters can be downloaded here: www.mypolice.qld.gov
Police Digital Media has also created a game called ‘Lolly Quest 2022’ as an entertaining way or fun way to educate children on safety practices while out trick or treating. The game is aimed at ages four plus and can be downloaded from the Apple App store.
How to stay safe while trick of treating
The Queensland Police advise trick or treaters to:
- Be always accompanied by a trusted adult
- Do not go out to late to trick or trick (plus it is a school night this year)
- Always walk, not run, and stick to the footpaths
- Do not walk on the road
- Never enter a stranger’s house even if you have knocked and they have invited you in
- If possible, try and wear a bright colour or something that glows in the dark
- Consider joining your friend on the neighbourhood adventure – safety in numbers
“Please have a safe and happy Halloween,” Acting Sgt McMeniman said.
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