Child protection applies on Halloween too

On Halloween, Saturday 31 October, the town of Bocholt is reminding people of the rules on the protection of minors. Clear age limits apply to alcohol, tobacco and cannabis, even on this spooky night. Parents, event organisers and business owners have a particular responsibility in this regard.

When witches, vampires and ghosts take to the streets on Saturday evening, there will be celebrations in many parts of Bocholt too. In recent years, Halloween has become a popular occasion for parties. As well as children going from house to house in fancy dress, many young people also make the most of the evening to celebrate. The town of Bocholt would like to point out that the Youth Protection Act and the Cannabis Act apply on Halloween just as they do on any other day of the year.

Beer, wine and sparkling wine must not be sold to, or consumed by, young people under the age of 16. Spirits, alcopops and other mixed drinks containing spirits are only permitted from the age of 18. The sale and consumption of tobacco products and e-cigarettes by minors is also prohibited. This explicitly applies to disposable e-cigarettes, known as 'vapes', and to e-shishas, regardless of whether they contain nicotine.

The legal situation regarding cannabis is equally clear: minors are prohibited from possessing, purchasing or consuming it. Adults are also not permitted to consume cannabis in the immediate presence of children and young people. Public consumption is also prohibited within sight of schools, nurseries, children's and youth centres, and playgrounds.

Anyone who breaches these rules faces substantial fines. This applies in particular to event organisers, business owners and adults who supply alcohol, tobacco or cannabis to minors. Depending on the case, criminal consequences are also possible.

"Particularly at Halloween, when fancy dress and group dynamics characterise the evening, many young people underestimate the effects of alcohol. Even small amounts can lead to impaired consciousness, accidents or alcohol poisoning", explains Bocholt's Deputy Mayor Björn Volmering, "young people's bodies are still developing and break down alcohol more slowly. As a result, the effects are more pronounced and the risk of health damage increases. Furthermore, alcohol often leads to arguments, aggression or risky behaviour when consumed in a group."

The town of Bocholt is therefore appealing to parents and guardians to talk to their children about alcohol and its risks before Halloween night. Adults serve as role models, which is also reflected in their own behaviour towards alcohol. Organisers of Halloween parties and business owners are urged to consistently check the age of their guests and customers, to ask for ID if in doubt, and to offer non-alcoholic drinks. Halloween should be an enjoyable evening for children, young people and adults alike. By celebrating responsibly and showing consideration, we can ensure that this spooky night remains a fond memory for everyone.