Not Fun For Everyone: Op Bang

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 1,778 calls for service* on Halloween, October 31st, and a further 1,721 on November 5th, Bonfire Night. 

Of those calls, 840 were via the emergency 999 number on Halloween, while 663 emergency 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 School Liaison Co-ordinators 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.  

Superintendent Naomi Drew, force lead for Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB), said:

"As Halloween and Bonfire Night approach, we understand that while these events bring excitement and celebration, they can also raise concerns for many in our communities. To prevent fireworks-related disorder and other forms of anti-social behaviour we will be working closely with the fire and rescue services, Welsh Ambulance Service Trust (WAST) and our wider partners. 

"ASB, arson and criminal activity can have serious consequences, including fines or imprisonment. We are urging everyone to enjoy celebrations safely and respectfully, so that our communities can come together in a positive and responsible way 

"We kindly ask people to act responsibly, help us to help keep you safe, and remember not everyone wants to take part. 

“We anticipate a very busy period for ourselves and the other emergency services, and there will be increased patrols in place across ASB hotspots.  We urge members of the public to report their concerns and contact us if they need help. 

“We are committed to keeping the public, our officers and emergency service colleagues safe, and we will be supported by specialist resources and partners throughout the Halloween and Bonfire festivities.  

“Finally, we would like to appeal to parents and guardians to have frank conversations with young people and to be aware of what they are doing and who with, and where possible, to accompany them if they are out trick or treating or attending firework displays, to ensure they are acting in a safe and respectful manner.” 

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:

• Live chat: https://www.south-wales.police.uk/
• Report online
• 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.)