Increased police visability to protect communities during Halloween and Bon Fire Night

Neighbourhood officers will be out across Greater Manchester to help ensure that Halloween and Bonfire Night celebrations are enjoyed safely and responsibly.

Police are also encouraging people to think carefully before hosting firework displays at home. 

If you do choose to celebrate at home, people are asked to follow the safety advice from Greater Manchester Fire Service to minimise the risk of injury or fire. 

It is illegal for anyone under 18 to possess or use fireworks in public, and fireworks must not be set off between 11pm and 7am. Using fireworks in public spaces such as streets or parks is also against the law. 

The force has also launched its 'Darker Nights' campaign providing people across the region with information to protect their homes and vehicles from burglary and theft. You can find out more about the campaign here - Continued commitment to neighbourhood crime as clocks go back | Greater Manchester Police 

Chief Superintendent David Meeney, Commander for the City of Manchester, said: “We want everyone to enjoy Halloween and Bonfire Night safely. While these events are a highlight for many, they can also bring challenges for maintaining public safety, protecting property and minimising antisocial behaviour during this period. 

“We will be working in partnership with the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, local authorities and members of the community to identify and deter those involved in antisocial behaviour. 

“Expect to see increased visibility and officers dedicated to these associated incidents to respond and deal in a timely and robust manner. We will be working with licenced premises to ensure that safe securing of fireworks and appropriate selling is taking place. 

“Our priority is to ensure that people are able to enjoy the period with friends and families in a responsible way.” 

GMFRS’s Director of Prevention and Protection, Deputy Chief Fire Officer Carlos Meakin, said: “The Halloween and Bonfire period is our toughest and busiest time, with our firefighters across GMFRS kept extremely busy. Our crews do an incredible job in these difficult circumstances to keep communities safe and we are thankful to the majority of residents who enjoy this period safely. 

“It’s positive to see that there were fewer attacks on our firefighters and hoax calls last year, however, this is still much more than we would hope to see and deliberate fire-setting is always a concern. 

“A fire started deliberately can be dangerous and could potentially take crews and resources away from attending more serious incidents. 

“I hope that the Bang Out Of Order campaign, working alongside our partner agencies, can highlight the dangers this behaviour poses and reduce these types of incidents.” 

Report it

To report anti-social behaviour or any crime or information, please report through 101 or use the LiveChat facility on the website: www.gmp.police.uk 

You can also report any information or crime anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. 

Always call 999 in an emergency.