As Halloween and Bonfire Night approach, Operation BANG is once again bringing together Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, South Wales Police and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service to encourage residents to enjoy the celebrations safely, responsibly and considerately.
REMEMBER to Scare Responsibly and Considerately This Halloween.
While Halloween and Bonfire Night become increasingly popular and are often the highlights of the autumn calendar for many families, they can also be unsettling for some residents, pets and those affected by trauma. Partners are reminding everyone that small acts of consideration can help ensure everyone enjoys the season safely.
Families are being encouraged to:
- Only trick-or-treat at homes clearly taking part in Halloween celebrations, such as those displaying lit pumpkins or decorations.
- Choose costumes from reputable retailers and check they carry the appropriate safety markings e.g. CE.
- Keep costumes, decorations and children away from naked flames.
- Check sweets carefully for allergen information before they are eaten.
- Consider using battery-operated candles instead of real flames.
For Bonfire Night, residents are encouraged to attend organised public displays wherever possible. Not only are they safer and more cost-effective, but they also reduce the risks associated with private firework displays and bonfires.
The Environmental Health Team licence and inspect ALL sellers for correct and safe storage. The Council strongly advises residents to only buy CE/UKCA marked fireworks from reputable and licensed shops. Before purchasing, seek advice on the suitability of fireworks for the space available, and check that they meet current safety standards.
- Remember It is an offence to let fireworks off between 11pm and 7am except on 5th November when the cut off is midnight, and on Diwali, New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year when the cut off is 1am. It is also an offence to set off fireworks in a public place.
Councillor Bob Harris, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Communities, said:
"Halloween and Bonfire Night are occasions that many people look forward to, but it's important to remember that not everyone experiences them in the same way.
"Whether it's choosing safe costumes, looking out for neighbours, considering pets, or thinking about the impact fireworks can have on people living with trauma, a little thoughtfulness can make a big difference.
"We want everyone to enjoy the season safely and respectfully so that our communities can celebrate together."
Councillor Louisa Addicott, Cabinet Member for Environment and Capital Infrastructure, added:
"Every year our teams remove large amounts of waste being stockpiled for illegal bonfires. These fires can contain dangerous materials that release toxic smoke and pose significant risks to people, property and the environment.
"Lighting fires in public places without permission is illegal and extremely dangerous. We would always urge residents to think twice and choose safer, more responsible ways to celebrate."
The Halloween and Bonfire period is traditionally extremely busy for the emergency services; last year South Wales Police received just over 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 partner agencies.
Chief Inspector and Force Lead for Anti-social Behaviour (ASB), Anthony Williams, said:
"As Halloween and Bonfire Night approach, we recognise these events bring excitement and enjoyment to many people, but they can also cause concern within our communities. To help prevent fireworks-related disorder and anti-social behaviour, we will be working closely with the fire and rescue service, the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust (WAST), and our wider partners.
"Anti-social behaviour, arson and other criminal activity can have serious consequences, including arrest, fines and imprisonment. We urge everyone to celebrate safely and respectfully so that communities can enjoy these occasions in a positive and responsible way.
"We ask people to play their part in keeping themselves and others safe, while remembering that not everyone wants to take part in these celebrations.
"We anticipate a busy period for all emergency services and will have increased patrols in known anti-social behaviour hotspots. We encourage members of the public to report concerns and contact us if they need assistance.
"Keeping our communities, emergency service colleagues and officers safe remains our priority. We will be supported by specialist resources and partners throughout the Halloween and Bonfire Night period.
"Finally, we ask parents and guardians to speak openly with young people about their plans, know where they are and who they are with, and where possible accompany them when trick-or-treating or attending organised firework events, helping to ensure everyone celebrates safely and respectfully."
The Council’s Community Wardens will also be increasing their patrols across Rhondda Cynon Taf to help increase support and resident safety.
Concerns around antisocial behaviour and public safety is a matter for the police.
If you witness suspicious activity, you should report it immediately to help protect your community:
Posted on 26/10/2026