Respect, protect and enjoy. That’s the message from Dyfed-Powys Police as officers urge people to celebrate Halloween safely.

Police have launched Operation Bang 2021, asking people to think differently about how they will mark Halloween this year.

COVID-19 has not gone away, and with some restrictions still in place, officers are urging people to respect their neighbours, protect emergency services by reducing demand on them, and enjoy celebrations in their homes.

Inspector Justin Evans from the Crime and Harm Reduction Unit said: “You may be familiar with Operation Bang, which is an annual campaign aimed at keeping people safe over Halloween and Guy Fawkes Night.

“This year, while we continue to focus on dealing with anti-social behaviour and keeping people safe, for the second year running, our message is slightly different given the extraordinary circumstances in which we have found ourselves.

“We are asking people to consider celebrating in their homes rather than going out to roam, respecting that there are people who have Halloween distressed during normal times, and who might find that the uncertainty of the current situation has compounded these feelings of anxiety.

“We are also asking you to do your best to keep yourself and your family safe to avoid putting extra pressure on the emergency services during an already busy time.”

Carving pumpkins, making crafts and creating a horror tour of your house or garden are all ways you can celebrate Halloween at home with young children.

Older children and teenagers may want to meet friends, but we encourage parents to keep track of their plans, remind them to consider the implications of their actions, and consider restrictions associated with the pandemic.

“Fortunately, the majority of the communities we police do not see a large increase in crime at this time of year, but there is always a possibility that one or two people can spoil it all for everyone else,” inspector Evans said.

“We don’t want anyone’s enjoyment to go over the top and cause distress or harm to others.

“By working together, we can have a safe and fun Halloween.”