Events & Entertainment | Posted on October 28th, 2025 | return to news

Dorset Police share advice for a spooktacular Halloween

Not everyone likes Halloween, so Dorset Police have come up with some guidelines to ensure everyone’s safety.

Dorset Police have issued some guidelines to ensure that people enjoy Halloween safely.

The Force says that not everyone wants visitors at their door. Seemingly harmless fun can be distressing to others.

When out and about, trick-or-treaters should look for the houses that are decorated and welcoming to visitors. Be considerate to more vulnerable members of the community that may be alarmed by people knocking on their doors.

The police are also encouraging those who don’t want visitors to go to https://www.dorset.police.uk/Halloween, where you can download and print a poster to place on the front door or window of your home.

For those who are embracing the spooky season by going out trick-or-treating, here are some top tips to help you have fun and stay safe this Halloween:

Younger children should always be accompanied by an adult when they are trick-or-treating.
Only go to houses of people you know and who are happy for you to call.
Stay safe, try to keep to places that you know and are well lit.
Watch out for traffic – drivers might not see you.
Carry a torch and a fully charged mobile phone (if you have one) to ensure you can contact family and friends if needed.

Retailers are also being asked to be vigilant in the sale of products that could potentially lead to anti-social behaviour, such as flour, eggs and alcohol. A poster is available on the website via the link above, which retailers can download and place in their shop windows.

Chief Superintendent and BCP Commander Heather Dixey, of Dorset Police, said: “In these darker nights, we want everyone to stay safe. In recent years, we’ve seen an increase in the number of people participating in Halloween fun.

“We’d say to anyone who’s going trick-or-treating to think about other people, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, as they may get worried if strangers are continually calling at the door during the evening.

“We don’t want to discourage anyone or spoil their fun, but remember to be respectful and think about the impact of your actions on other people. Help us make Dorset a safe county for everyone.”

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick said: “Halloween provides an opportunity for our communities to come together and enjoy the festivities, but it is vital that this is done responsibly and with consideration for others.

“When you are out celebrating, please remember to be respectful of those around you who do not wish to celebrate or may be adversely affected by strangers calling at their door during the evening.

“I wish everyone an enjoyable Halloween and thank our communities for helping to keep Dorset safe for all.”

Tess Cross, education manager at Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We hope everyone has a happy Halloween whether you are celebrating or not.

“Don’t forget to make sure children are safe – teach them to stay away from candles, especially if wearing fancy dress, and keep matches and lighters out of their reach.”