Xmas Safety Campaign Launched Across Harborough

A campaign encouraging people to take care over the festive period is being launched across the Harborough District.

Operation Christmas Presence is being run by Police, the Fire Service and council community safety officers.

Including a safety message on HFM, it’s promoting sensible drinking, safe shopping on-line and fire safety in the home.

It’s the tenth year the campaign has been held over the festive season and this year it is promoting the county ‘Celebrate Safely’ campaign, the Police ‘Lock it or Lose it’ campaign, ‘Fatal Four’ and ‘Get Safe’ online internet safety messages.

Cllr Michael Rickman, Harborough District Council’s portfolio holder for Community Safety,said: “Christmas is a time of joy and community. Please stay safe and follow the advice from your Community Safety Partnership; look after yourself and remember others less fortunate. Have a Merry Christmas.”

Sgt Kev Manship, of Harborough Police, said; “We’re pleased to be working with the CSP once more this Christmas to help ensure that everyone enjoys the festivities in a safe and considerate fashion. My officers and PCSO’s will be on patrol and will deal with any incidents which may arise. Those who choose to break the law or act in an anti social manner can expect to be dealt with swiftly and robustly. Last year was a great success and I’m certain that this year will be too.”

Tips on staying safe this Christmas include:

• Plan your journey home before leaving for the night
• Book taxis in advance, or agree a designated driver
• Try to avoid rounds, or keeping up with friends who drink more
• Don’t accept drinks from strangers
• Walk home with friends, not alone
• Don’t leave valuables or newly purchased goods on display in your car
• Do not reply to unsolicited emails from companies you don’t recognise.
• Ensure that any online retailer unfamiliar to you is reputable by researching them.
• Do not pay for goods when using an unsecured Wi-Fi connection
• Remember the Fatal 4 before driving:
  • Always wear a seat-belt
  • Never drink or drug drive
  • Never use a mobile phone whilst driving
  • Stick to the speed limits
• Many fires in the home start at night. Make sure you have an escape plan, a night-time fire safety routine and working smoke alarms to help keep you and your family safe.
• Unplug fairy lights when you leave the house or go to bed
• Keep candles/tea lights away from curtains, furniture and anything else that can catch fire. Keep loose clothing and hair away from candles/tea lights when they are lit.
• Never remove batteries from smoke alarms for use in new toys and gifts.
• Be careful charging devices such as mobile phones and e-cigarettes. Only use recommended chargers and don’t leave them plugged in overnight.