Police have launched their seasonal crackdown on crime and anti-social behaviour connected to Halloween and Bonfire Night.

Previously there has been a large spike in incidents at this time of year caused by unwanted trick-or-treating, firework misuse and criminals exploiting the darker nights to commit robbery, theft, burglary and knife-related offences.

This year there has also been the sinister 'killer clown' craze, with people – sometimes armed with weapons - dressing as clowns to scare others.

During the Met Police’s Operation Autumn Nights campaign Safer Neighbourhood officers will carry out additional patrols and visit vulnerable residents to provide reassurance and offer crime prevention advice.

Transport police and Transport for London will also be increasing patrols to prevent trouble on buses and at transport stops.

Test purchases of fireworks, alcohol and over-the-counter weapons will take place, with a pledge to “robustly” deal with any retailers in breach of licensing laws.

Police say tactics such as being highly visible at known crime hotspots have led to a reduction of about a third in the number of calls about anti-social behaviour in the past three years.

Chief Superintendent Jason Gwillim said: "We are here for London and to help make sure that everyone can enjoy the festivities and stay safe.

"All 32 London boroughs have a local plan in place, drawing together experience and successful tactics from previous years as well as managing planned events in their areas, focusing our resources in the right places and working closely and continually with our partners and communities.

"I would like to stress that our operations are not aimed at demonising young people, the large majority of whom behave safely and responsibly. However those intent on committing crime and anti-social behaviour will face the consequences."

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Met Police’s Halloween safety tips:

Don't knock on doors displaying a 'No trick or Treat' sign.

Always go trick or treating with an adult.

Plan your route - only go to places where you and your friends know the residents.

Keep visible - stay in areas that are well lit and take a torch.

Don't talk to strangers on the street.

Don't go inside any house.

Be careful crossing the road.

Although Halloween is supposed to be spooky, be careful not to frighten vulnerable people.

Rules on fireworks:

You must be over 18 to buy fireworks.

It is illegal to possess fireworks in a public place if you're under 18.

It is an offence to throw or let-off a firework in a street or public place.

If you let off fireworks between 23:00 and 07:00hrs, you will be breaking the law (except on Bonfire Night when it extends to midnight).

You must be over 18 to buy fireworks and it is an offence to throw or let-off a firework in a street or public place.

Go to a publically organised firework display and enjoy the spectacle without the safety concerns of organising your own event.

Don't forget your pets; keep them safe indoors.

Keeping your home safe:

Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes.

Make sure UPVC doors are properly locked with a key.

Make sure the side and/or back gate is locked.

Lock your shed or garage Make sure that any valuables are out of sight.

Leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home.

Don't leave your car keys or ID documents near doors, windows or your letterbox.