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Stay safe through spooky season
THE Hallowe'en and Bonfire Night period has traditionally been a peak time for the police and fire services.
But a new tactic has been adopted in recent years. Rather than reacting to trouble as it happens, fun events have been organised to distract potential trouble-makers.
Pc Dave Rowbotham, of Bakewell Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "Historically, we have seen an increased number of call-outs, but over the past two or three years, when we have focused on diversionary activities, there has been a big reduction.
"The partnership is helping to fund all sorts of activities these days.
"Last year we held a very successful night in Bakewell, with fun and games for families on the Moorhall estate," he added.
Pc Rowbotham hopes residents will again join his team for food and games outside Moorhall General Store in Bakewell on Hallowe'en Night – Saturday, October 31.
Similar events are being held across the Dales and residents should contact their safer neighbourhood teams to find out more.
While many people view 'trick or treating' as a harmless custom, children are being reminded that some find it intimidating.
So police have designed a free 'Sorry, No Trick or Treat' poster for people who want to be left alone on the night.
Meanwhile, the county council's youth service has placed handy Hallowe'en safety tips on its website.
Youngsters are advised to stay close to home and to refuse requests to enter homes.
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service has been visiting schools over the last month to raise awareness of bonfire season dangers.
Matlock Fire Station manager David Munt spoke to children at All Saints Junior School in Matlock on Monday.
Mr Munt said: "We told them all about firework safety, how to hold sparklers and to act carefully around bonfires.
"The message really does seem to get through, and we don't actually get that many call-outs in this area anymore."
Legal fireworks – which should carry the BS 7114 symbol – went on sale to the general public on Monday and can be sold until November 10.
But Philip Le Shirley, from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, said: "The safest place to enjoy fireworks is at a properly organised public display.
"If that's not possible, then you can take an important step towards a safe and enjoyable private party by buying fireworks from registered sellers."
There is a wide variety of organised events across our area this year and Visit Peak District and Derbyshire has launched a new festival, called Spookyshire, from October 24 to 31.
Gulliver's Kingdom in Matlock Bath will hold a 'scare school', ghost walk, creepy crafts, fancy dress competition and fireworks.
General manager Dean Kimberley said: "Spookyshire is a brilliant opportunity for families to enjoy some thrills and spills throughout the autumn half-term holiday."
Chatsworth House will host a fright-filled week of creepy capers, including a visit from a spell weaver, a haunted wood and a pumpkin hunt.
Communications officer Kay Rotchford said: "Whatever visitors choose, it's sure to be a ghoulish week that they won't dare to forget."
For information about events, and how to stay safe, click here.
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Weather for Bakewell
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 11 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 22 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
