Fears Halloween in Perth could get out of hand will lead to a crackdown on anti-social behaviour as the world-wide “killer clown” craze continues.
A host of themed events have been organised for the city and youngsters will be out in force to trick or treat.
City chiefs are, however, keen to ensure that fun is to the fore rather than mischief or anything more malicious.
Safer Communities wardens will be deployed in strength across the city in the wake of a slew of incidents in recent years.
They have seen houses and cars suffer low level vandalism and that will see shopkeepers urged to question youngsters attempting purchases of eggs and flour.
There has also been evidence of vulnerable residents, including the elderly and those with mobility issues or other disabilities, being “disturbed” by those trick or treating.
That will see stickers made available to advise guisers that certain houses should be avoided, together with a poster campaign urging responsible behaviour.
Wardens may also be on the lookout for more sinister behaviour this year, given the rise of the so called “killer clown” craze.
People of all ages have been targeted by masked and costumed “clowns” in recent weeks, with incidents across Scotland – and around the world.
One such incident took place in Perth, where a lone female walker was faced by a masked individual who jumped from trees on Kinnoull Hill to scare her.
Councillor Douglas Pover, convener of the local community safety committee, said the effort was designed, first and foremost, to ensure everyone enjoys Halloween in the city and not to punish anyone for having fun.
“We are not out to spoil anyone’s fun but the ‘egging’ fad has caused people real distress and a lot of hard work to clean the mess out of their brickwork and windows,” he said.
“The wardens have made a real difference in deterring this behaviour by working closely with shopkeepers to warn youngsters not to buy flour and eggs at this time of the year.
“Posters will reinforce the message and we hope this will put youngsters off asking in the first place.
“The stickers are also a great idea.
“Not everyone is fit to come to the door in the evening and I appeal to parents and children planning to go out this Halloween to just walk past any house displaying this sticker.
“It means the occupant shouldn’t be disturbed.”
Anyone who would like one of the stickers should contact the Safer Communities Team on 01738 476173.
