AN amnesty for zombie knives begins next week, ahead of a ban in September.
Owners of large blades and machetes are being urged to hand the fearsome weapons in at police stations, no questions asked.
From September 24, zombie-style knives and machetes will be added to a prohibited list of dangerous items, which includes butterfly knives, samurai swords and push daggers.
Policing minister Dame Diana Johnson said: “We are offering people the chance to do the right thing — to help make our streets safer and prevent further loss of life.
“Too many people have access to weapons that can lead to devastating, life-changing injuries.
“There is no legitimate need for a weapon of this kind on our streets.
“That is why we will make sure the tightest restrictions are in place to limit their availability.
“We cannot do this alone — political, policing and community leaders must work together.”
People should contact police for advice on how to package knives before handing them in.
Anyone found with a machete or zombie-style knife following the ban will face time in jail.