TRICK-OR-TREATING is a long-standing tradition across the world, but sometimes issues can arise.
Children must be chaperoned by a responsible adult and respect the public otherwise they can get in trouble with the law.
There are several unwritten rules that those wanting to get their hands on some sweet treats must adhere to.
If these are broken then some may end up on the wrong side of the law and land themselves with a criminal record.
Breaking the law
Trick-or-treating on Halloween in the UK is permitted, however, the police have the power to apprehend individuals involved in disruptive behaviour.
Going out trick-or-treating is not illegal in itself but some actions can break the law.
Inappropriate behaviour can involve harassment, vandalism or disturbances.
If children are found to be too loud or trying to scare people then the police may get involved.
If this is the case then they child can be issued an anti-social behaviour order which carries a fine of up to £1,000.
Also, if trick-or-treaters find that a home-owner is not answering the door, they should respect this and move on.
Likewise, if a home-owner finds that their property has been damaged in any way, they should contact the police.
Vandalism can carry a sentence of up to 10 years depending on the severity of the offence.
Age limits
While there is no minimum or maximum age when going trick-or-treating, those under 16 need to have a responsible adult with them.
Despite there being no age limit, those who go out tend to be around primary school age from around four to 11 years old.
If there are police cases which involved under 16s then the parents may be held responsible for any fines that are imposed.
Curfew
There is no official curfew for trick-or-treating but it’s recommended to have children home by a reasonable hour.
Children should have respect for those in their community and avoid knocking on doors too late.
A spokesperson from Stephen Rimmer and Co. solicitors advised: “If you don’t want to annoy your Trick-or-Treat victims, then make sure you get the whole event over and done with by early evening.
“A knock on the door at 11pm could make more vulnerable householders feel very frightened.
“In that instance, they have every right to contact the police if they feel uneasy or that the trick could be more sinister.”
Tacky Halloween decorations
Interiors expert Miriam Gomez revealed the seven mistakes that are making your Halloween decorations look tacky.
- Too much orange and black can make your home look like a Halloween shop.
- Plastic tombstones come across as cartoonish rather than spooky.
- Too many lights can be overwhelming, mix in some candles instead.
- Fake materials and too much glitter can make your house look cheap.
- Loud repetitive sounds can be incredibly annoying for you and your neighbours.
- Inflatable garden decor look tacky and can float into your neighbour’s garden.
- Not embracing classic elements such as carved pumpkins.
