Police warn: Halloween pranks can have serious consequences!

Police warn: Halloween pranks can have serious consequences!

During the time around Halloween, which is celebrated in Germany on the night of All Saints' Day, children in Cologne are once again ready to dress up and collect sweets. The proverbial cry of “trick or treat” is heard not only in the streets but also on social media. But police warn that not all Halloween activities are light-hearted. It's high time to prepare for the night ahead.

As the News.de reports, in recent years there has been increasing evidence of exaggerated jokes that can have serious consequences. While many children like to scare the neighbors with harmless pranks, wrapping cars with toilet paper or throwing eggs at windows can quickly be viewed as property damage.

The legal framework

The police point out that such damage to property can be punished with fines and up to two years in prison. Parents should be aware that they are liable for the actions of their underage children, especially when criminal pranks occur. Even those who are present during a prank can experience legal consequences for communal damage to property.

Potential disaster often occurs when children wander around houses in the dark. To avoid accidents, the police recommend that you be particularly vigilant as a road user, especially late on Friday afternoons and in the evenings. Many children wear dark costumes, which can reduce visibility.

Parents as guardians

One of the parents' responsibilities is to talk to children about the possible consequences of not-so-harmless pranks. The Police advice emphasizes that even small insults such as slime in mailboxes or shaving cream on doorknobs can result in criminal prosecution. Harmless-sounding taunts such as knocking and running away are permitted, but should be discussed with the children early on in a respectful environment.

Liability insurance is a staple for many families, and that's not a bad idea, especially on Halloween. Children under 7 years of age are not capable of committing a crime, while younger children between 7 and 10 years of age only have limited liability. Parents should make sure that the kids are given clear rules and boundaries. Sometimes it is advisable to personally go with the younger “ghosts” and assist them on the candy tours.

Conclusion: Trick or Treat?

While the fun on Halloween should definitely not be neglected, the legal aspects must also be kept in mind. There are no horror scenarios to be expected, but rather a responsible approach to the traditions of the night. If you're not at home, you can still protect yourself by putting a bowl of sweets in front of the door to ward off the "sour". Let's hope that this year's Halloween night in Cologne is more dedicated to sweet tastes than the sour consequences of ill-advised pranks.

For more information and tips on safe behavior on Halloween, those interested can also visit the following links: Adam Riese.