IT can be difficult choosing what you want to dress up as for Halloween each year.
If you were thinking of wearing a soldier costume, then think again, as this could land you in a lot of trouble.
You are not allowed to dress as a soldier[/caption]
You will need to think of an alternative outfit option unless you want to end up in bother.
There are laws in place to make sure you don’t dress as a soldier which, if broken, could give you a criminal record.
Illegal costume
Two laws state that you are not allowed to impersonate certain professions.
The Seamen’s and Soldiers’ False Characters Act 1906 and the Police Act 1996 state that it’s illegal to impersonate a police officer or member of the armed forces.
If you are caught doing so, it could land you with a custodial sentence.
This rule applies all year round and not just for Halloween, so if you are impersonating a soldier then you will be in trouble with the police.
Offensive dress
As mentioned, it is also illegal to dress as a police officer.
If you go against this rule then you can be hit with a six-month prison sentence as well as an unlimited fine.
If you weren’t aware of the rules then you could still be fined up to £1,000.
Even if you are just carrying an item of police clothing you could be fined as much as £200.
There are also more rules when it comes to dressing in some other costumes.
It is against the law to dress in a costume which can be deemed racist, transphobic or offensive.
Halloween laws
There aren’t any other laws when it comes to Halloween but certain behaviours may get you on the wrong side of the police.
It isn’t illegal to go trick-or-treating but those going need to be respectful or the police could get involved.
If someone’s house is damaged as a result of the trick-or-treaters then they can make a claim for damages against the individuals (or their parents if they are a minor).
Causing excessive noise or intimidating the public could also see you given an anti-social behaviour order.
How to save on Halloween
CUT-OUTS WON’T KEEP: Once carved, pumpkins last just three to five days before they start to rot. So wait until a day or two before Halloween to carve yours, to ensure you won’t have to buy a replacement.
CHILLING CARVINGS: Carve your pumpkin right first time. Download free templates from Hobbycraft to help ensure no slip-ups.
DEVILISHY CHEAP DECORATIONS: Create spooky spider webs using old string or rope.
PAY LESS FOR FACE PAINTS: Cut costs by using your old eyeliners and eyeshadows, and dab on some talc when you need a ghostly white shade.
CUT-PRICE CANDY: Before you buy sweets to give out as treats, clear out your cupboards and see what you have. If you need more, shop bulk deals and compare the price per kilo before you buy.
PETRIFYING POT LUCK: Ask your guests to each bring a delicious themed dish to your party to keep hosting costs down.
SPINE-CHILLING TUNES: Turn to YouTube for a frighteningly good free playlist. There are dozens of channels with hour-long music mixes.
HOLD A SPOOKY SWISH: Swishing — or clothes-swapping with friends — is an easy way to get a new wardrobe. Hold a spooky swish before Halloween to trade costumes for kids and adults.
FRIGHTENING FREEBIES: Sign up for a free local Halloween event. Check your local Nextdoor or Facebook pages, or search eventbrite.co.uk for ideas.
BLOODY GOOD DEAL: Don’t fork out for expensive fake blood. Make your own edible version instead. You can use it for cakes and to decorate costumes.
SHOP ON NOV 1: Be organised and bag the bargains for next year by hitting the shops the day after Halloween. Remember to buy your kids’ costumes a size larger to allow for growth.
