OFFICERS will be conducting “high visibility patrols” throughout the Halloween period to keep people safe while out drinking or treat and treating.

Wiltshire Police will be stepping up patrols throughout Salisbury, with the help of special constable volunteers, to ensure people are protected on one of the busiest nights of the year.

Salisbury Community Coordinator PC Matt Holland said: “Officers will be conducting high visibility patrols over the Halloween period and our PCSO’s have been out locally distributing the ‘no trick or treat’ posters to residents.

“Halloween weekend is traditionally one of the busiest evenings for people out enjoying themselves in our city centre.

“Extra officers supported by our special constable volunteers will be on hand to help keep people safe. We want everyone to enjoy themselves but ask that they if they’re going out drinking to know their limits and plan in advance how they are getting home.”

Police are also asking parents and carers to be sure they know where their children are over the Halloween period and that they know to act responsibly.

Superintendent Phil Staynings, Head of Crime Prevention said: “We want everyone to enjoy Halloween in a safe and responsible way that does not cause any problems in our communities.

“Stay safe when walking around after dark, be conscious of traffic and busy roads and stay with the people you are with.

“Remember unexpected callers at the door can cause distress and be frightening for some people, particularly the elderly. So carefully consider which doors you knock on if you are trick or treating.”

Police have issued guidance to anyone who is out trick or treating this weekend:

• Always trick or treat accompanied by an adult

• Only visit houses where you know the occupants and know they’re happy for people to call

• Do not knock on doors where there’s a sign saying ‘Sorry no trick or treat here please’

• Stay safe, keep to well-lit areas with street lights and don’t take short cuts through gardens, alleyways or parks. Take a torch and a charged mobile phone with you just in case

• Do not enter any house – stay on the door step

• Be careful not to frighten vulnerable people, especially the elderly

• Watch out for traffic. If you're wearing a mask, make sure that you can see where you are going and are aware of your surroundings.