Lincolnshire police issue safe trick or treating advice

The advice to trick or treaters is to only visit decorated houses.

A spokesperson for Lincolnshire Police said: "Pretty simple, but effective: respect that if someone hasn’t decorated their home, they aren’t taking part. This simple approach is win/win. It means people who don’t want to receive callers can enjoy a peaceful evening, and it means that trick or treaters can be reasonably sure that they are welcome at a decorated house and therefore more likely to receive a treat.

"Be safe and be respectful. We know children get excited but make sure they are careful and considerate. Mind personal property like garden ornaments and *do not* try door handles, step into someone’s home or knock/ring a door bell repeatedly. Keep to your local neighbourhood or areas that you know."

* Don’t let young children go on their own.

* Have a little pep talk before you set off about road safety and being respectful... once they get a whiff of sweets they are much more difficult to communicate with!…

Parents of teenagers should:

* Make sure they don’t have plans involving alcohol, eggs, flour or fireworks.

* Seek their views on playing ‘tricks’ on strangers, make sure they grasp the morality of it and the legal implications.

* Make sure they stay with friends and don’t put themselves in any dangerous situations.