Not Fun For Everyone - #OpBang

Pumpkin-carving, fancy dress and spectacular firework displays; Halloween and Bonfire Night are often highlights in the family calendar. But with a small minority seeing the autumnal events as an excuse to act in an antisocial manner, the period can leave many in our communities feeling anxious, intimidated and fearful. 

With that in mind, South Wales Police will once again be supporting Op Bang, helping our communities to enjoy the festivities safely while asking them to remember that Halloween and Bonfire night are Not Fun For Everyone.

The period is traditionally extremely busy for the emergency services; last year South Wales Police received more than 2,000 calls for service* on Halloween, October 31st, and a further 2,200-plus on November 5th, Bonfire Night. Of those calls, 925 were via the emergency 999 number on Halloween, while 764 999 calls were received on Bonfire Night.

While demand often peaks on those dates, the period before, during and after those dates is also often extremely busy, placing additional demand on police and partners.

Our officers will continue to be visible in our communities in the run up to, and during, the festivities to help prevent and detect antisocial behaviour (ASB) and disorder.

Neighbourhood teams will be working closely with local authority partners and retailers during the next few weeks, reminding everyone of their responsibilities and sharing materials which can be displayed in shops to how a united front against ASB.

Our Schools Liaison Officers and partner agencies will also be visiting schools throughout the force area to educate pupils on the dangers of fireworks and bonfires as well as the consequences of antisocial behaviour.

We’ve created an activity pack which can be downloaded by teachers and parents to help keep their youngsters entertained and to get them in the spooky spirit.

Those concerned about the festivities and who don’t wish to be disturbed are encouraged to download our poster to display in their window to deter unwanted callers.  

Chief Inspector Mark Brier, force lead for antisocial behaviour, said:

“We know what a great few days Halloween and Bonfire Night can be; for some families it’s a real highlight and we don’t want to ruin the celebrations for anyone. In fact, we want the contrary. We want those celebrating to do so safely and have a great time, while also being mindful that it’s Not Fun For Everyone.

“There are vulnerable people in our communities for whom Halloween and Bonfire Night brings added stress, anxiety and fear and they have every right to feel safe in their homes and while out in their communities. The vast majority of people are respectful of that, but there is no getting away from the fact that some people see the occasion as an opportunity to act in an antisocial manner, and that cannot be tolerated.

“Our teams will be out and about across south Wales in the coming weeks – in schools, shops,  community groups etc – educating people about the dangers, consequences, and the law, and helping to reassure our communities that we are committed to keeping them safe.

“We all have a part to play – police and partners, retailers and parents. While ASB is not limited to youths, both key dates fall in half-term this year and I would urge parents to take an interest in their children’s plans to ensure they’re acting responsibility and not risking falling foul of the law. The consequences of antisocial behaviour and criminality can have a lasting impact on a young person’s life, and on those affected by their actions.”

Who to contact

To help us keep our lines free for those who need us most, please ensure you’re contacting the most relevant agency and using the most appropriate means of contact.

• Concerns around antisocial behaviour and public safety is a matter for the police. If not an emergency, you can contact us via the following means:
• Send us a private message on Facebook / Twitter
• Report online
• Email [email protected]
• 101

In an emergency, always dial 999.

• Concerns about noise, sale of fireworks and other related items, and littering/ fly-tipping should be directed to your local authority. You can find their details here.
• Unsure whether your concern is a matter for police or someone else? This handy guide can help. 

(*Figures include all contact received via 999, 101 and direct online methods.)