Hertfordshire Police are urging residents in Hitchin and across the county to celebrate Halloween and Bonfire Night responsibly, reminding people that not everyone enjoys fireworks, trick-or-treaters or unexpected visitors.

With Halloween just around the corner and Bonfire Night celebrations approaching, officers are preparing for a busy period as families and communities take part in seasonal festivities.

Police say neighbourhood officers will be out across Hertfordshire providing a visible presence and helping to keep people safe.

Local Policing Superintendent Chris Hay said: "Across the county, neighbourhood officers will be out and about helping to keep our communities safe and providing a visible presence during what can be a busy time of year.

"We want everyone to enjoy themselves, but we also ask people to remember that not everyone celebrates Halloween or Bonfire Night. A little consideration can go a long way.

"What might seem like harmless fun to one person could cause worry, distress or inconvenience to someone else.

"Please take a moment to look through our safety advice and, if you have any concerns, speak to your local officers or get in touch with us through our usual contact channels."

For families in Hitchin planning to go trick-or-treating, police have issued several reminders to help ensure the evening is enjoyable for everyone.

Children should always be accompanied by a responsible adult and should never go trick-or-treating alone.

Residents are also encouraged to visit only properties that appear to be participating in Halloween, such as homes displaying pumpkins, decorations or 'Trick or Treaters Welcome' posters.

Police have warned that Halloween pranks must remain good-natured, with damage to property, threatening behaviour, abusive language and causing harm to others potentially resulting in criminal offences.

Families are also being reminded to take extra care when crossing roads, particularly as evenings become darker.

With fireworks displays expected across Hertfordshire in the coming days, police are also reminding residents of the laws surrounding their use.

It is illegal to set off fireworks in public places, including streets.

For private displays, fireworks must generally not be set off after 11pm, although this deadline is extended to midnight on Bonfire Night, Wednesday 5 November.

Residents organising displays are encouraged to be considerate of neighbours, particularly those with young children, pets or people who may be distressed by loud noises.

Further information about fireworks legislation is available at www.gov.uk/fireworks-the-law⁠.

Hertfordshire Police are also running a Halloween quiz competition for young witches and wizards, offering the chance to win tickets to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter in Leavesden.

The competition closes at midnight on Friday 13 November.

Families can enter the competition and find further Halloween safety advice by visiting herts.police.uk/Halloween⁠.

Police are encouraging everyone celebrating in Hitchin and the surrounding villages to enjoy the festivities while showing consideration for others.