POLICE are urging trick-or-treaters to respect homes that don’t want visitors this Halloween.

People are urged to avoid homes where it is not obvious they would be welcome and to think of vulnerable members of the community who may be distressed at strangers knocking on their door at night.

Chief superintendent and BCP commander Heather Dixey, of Dorset Police, said: “We don’t want to discourage anyone or spoil anyone’s fun, but we’d ask people to be considerate and respect those not wishing to participate.”

Retailers should also remain vigilant over the sale of flour, eggs and alcohol to young people as it could potentially lead to anti-social behaviour.

Dorset police crime commissioner David Sidwick said: “While Halloween is a time when many families and youngsters in Dorset come together to have fun, I would urge everyone to do so responsibly without inflicting harm on others.”

Anyone who does not wish to be bothered by trick-or-treaters can download and print a poster at www.dorset.police.uk/Halloween

Dorset Police advises parents encourage their children to keep them informed of their whereabouts by making sure mobile phones are charged and they stick with friends when out and about.

Other safety advice includes children being accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating, only going to houses you know and will be welcome, visiting well-lit areas, not taking short cuts through garden, alleyways or parks, watching out for traffic and carrying a torch.