Trick or treating, Halloween parties and bonfire night gatherings out of bounds, say police
Halloween parties, trick or treating and bonfire night gatherings are out of bounds, police warned today.
Officers warned of extra patrols on the streets – and the prospect of a £10,000 fine for those breaking social distancing rules.
Police and local authorities fear gatherings for Halloween, bonfire night and Diwali could severely hamper efforts to control the virus.
It comes as new figures reveal soaring infection levels in all areas of the West Midlands and Staffordshire, leading to the prospect of the region moving to stricter Tier 3 measures.
Staffordshire Police said there will be a “visible presence” in communities and is asking that people use “common sense”.
Superintendent Tom Chisholm, head of neighbourhood policing, said: “Any planned event can only be organised by certain organisations or businesses and must have a thorough Covid risk assessment that is approved by the local authority. Anyone who plans an unauthorised events can face a fine of £10,000.”
West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner David Jamieson, added: “I think people will instinctively want to avoid door to door trick or treating even if it doesn’t technically break the rules in our region.
“People are dying every day. It is important restrictions are adhered to and that sadly means that festivals like Diwali are likely to be very different this year."
West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) has also warned residents of the dangers of holding firework displays at home this bonfire night as major events have been cancelled.
Between 2014 and 2019, WMFS firefighters responded to 1,760 bonfire and fireworks-related incidents, so the fire service is encouraging residents to help avoid a surge this year.
Station Commander Samantha Samuels, said: “The pandemic has changed so much, for so many people, and we know that many people will be looking forward to having a bonfire and adding some fireworks sparkle to 2020. However, we are urging families to think twice about it this year, and to find alternative and safer ways to celebrate.
“It’s important to remember that fireworks are explosives. If you feel you must go ahead with a bonfire party, please plan carefully.
“Be sure to buy suitable, legal fireworks and that you have enough outdoor space to use them safely, in line with the instructions that come with them.”
Recently-introduced Government legislation gives police the powers to fine people who break the latest lockdown measures. Restrictions on social gatherings – both nationally and locally – are in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19 and to ease pressures on the NHS.
It comes as Wolverhampton North East MP Jane Stevenson condemned youths who launched fireworks at cars and houses in Bushbury on Sunday night, describing it as “reckless and incredibly dangerous”.
Video footage emerged on Facebook of a group of young people launching fireworks at cars as they drove along Kempthorne Avenue and Bushbury Lane.
Ms Stevenson contacted Wolverhampton’s Chief Superintendent to inform him of the footage, and has condemned the activity.
The police have said they will increase their patrols in the Bushbury area over the next fortnight, according to the MP.
Ms Stevenson said: “I condemn in the strongest possible terms this reckless and incredibly dangerous behaviour from a group of youths in Bushbury at the weekend. It is a miracle that nobody was seriously injured.
“Upon seeing the video footage on Facebook myself, I immediately contacted the Chief Superintendent for Wolverhampton and asked him to investigate and step up patrols in the area. I am concerned that as we approach November 5, and with many annual bonfire night celebrations cancelled due to the pandemic, we are likely to see more people purchasing their own fireworks and acting dangerously with them.
“I would urge everyone to be vigilant and contact the police if they spot any behaviour which puts the public in danger.”
