This weekend is one of the busiest weekends for police all over the UK, historically there is a significant increase in reported anti social behaviour, but police in North East Lincolnshire say they are fully prepared to ensure that Halloween will pass with minimal disruption.

Tonight and tomorrow are sure to see many youngsters dressed in their scariest costumes for a spot of trick or treating on the streets of North East Lincolnshire.

The reason for the traditional increase in anti social behaviour is due to the volume of young people being on the streets at night; the vast majority is well behaved and having fun, but there are occasionally one or two incidents which cause alarm.

Mischief Night as it known – where some youngsters can cause problems doing things they class as fun, such as throwing eggs at windows. But the vast majority of youngsters just want to enjoy themselves earning their ‘treats’.

However, Humberside Police officers say they are prepared to do all they can to keep crime and anti social behaviour to a minimum.

To achieve this, police are working alongside Humberside Fire And Rescue Service and North East Lincolnshire Council (NELC) in the build-up to and aftermath of Halloween and Bonfire Night to ensure the smooth running of the traditional events and the safety of the public.

This partnership approach is known as Operation Kincorth.

Inspector Will Jenkins, who heads the Grimsby neighbourhood policing team, said: “More than ever this year we have got a wide range of partnership activities which are running throughout the whole of North East Lincolnshire and police will be working alongside Safer And Stronger Communities, Trading Standards and the fire service, in order to address any safety issues or concerns around illegal fireworks as Bonfire Night approaches.

“This time of year sees a lot of people venturing out into their gardens, particularly on Bonfire Night, so it is important to keep houses secure and ensure doors and windows are always locked.

“We don’t necessarily have more staff on shift at this time of the year, we tend to make sure that the staff are directed to tackle certain areas.

“For instance, some are redirected, and some PCSOs may change their duties so that we can tackle all of the issues across the area.”

To ensure this weekend runs successfully, Humberside Police has released two posters. One is for residents who do not wish to be visited by trick or treaters, and the other offers advice to those taking part in Halloween.

Councillor Steve Beasant, NELC’s portfolio holder for community safety, said: “Vulnerable people – such as the elderly – have got to take extra care this weekend.

“My advice to them is not to answer the door unless it is somebody you know.

“There are going to be a lot of young people out having fun and potentially using Mischief Night for the wrong reasons.

“We do not want any injuries or problems, so if you don’t wish to be disturbed, do not answer the door.”