Anti-social behaviour meets a sticky end

Enjoy a safe and happy halloween and bonfire night.

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Greater Manchester Police has teamed up with the Fire Service, Trading Standards, the Health and Safety Executive and other authorities to target those who cause harmful pranks during the busy Halloween and Bonfire period.

Treacle is an initiative designed to tackle anti-social behaviour and reduce injuries caused by fireworks. It will also provide assurances to the public that such actions will not be tolerated.

A number of operations are now underway to curb the predicted rise in anti-social behaviour, criminal damage and fire-related incidents and injuries.

During the whole of 2007, there were a total of 2,170 offences relating to fireworks. 1,718 of these offences took place in October and November alone.

Chief Superintendent Jon Rush, who is leading Treacle, said: “It’s a very busy period for all of us, and we want to make sure everyone enjoys it safely. We’re not aiming to be kill joys and spoil people’s fun but we understand many residents across Greater Manchester dread this time of year.”

This initiative is being supported by a campaign to raise awareness of the consequences of this type of behaviour, which can be from a visit by police to an offender’s home to an £80 on the spot fine and a criminal record.

Flyers will be made available for residents to display in their doors or windows issuing two messages to Trick or Treaters. On one side, there is a picture of a smiling pumpkin with the words “Hello, Trick or Treaters welcome”. On the reverse is an image of a frowning pumpkin with the slogan “Sorry, no Trick or Treaters please”.

Chief Superintendent Rush added: “My advice for a safe and enjoyable Halloween and bonfire is to respect others, use fireworks responsibly and preferably attend an organised event.”