Get Home Safe this New Year

As Christmas seems almost as far away as ever many people will be preparing to celebrate the arrival of 2013.

  

If you are planning to go out over the New Year period we want you to be safe.  Whilst the risk of becoming a victim of crime is low there are a number of simple steps that you can take to make sure that you keep safe.  Many incidents are opportunistic in nature and therefore your actions can make a real difference.

If you are outdoors:

• Stay in bright, well-lit and busy areas.
• Look and act confident.
• Get a personal attack alarm. They are available from DIY stores or ask your local Crime Prevention Officer.
• If you are in a club or pub watch your drink - do not leave it unattended and if you have to leave for any reason, stay with friends.
• Have definite arrangements for getting home and stay together in a group. 

When carrying a bag or valuables:

• Carry your bag close to you with the clasp facing inwards.
• If possible carry your things in a small bag across your body, under your outer coat.
• Spread your valuables around.  For example, carry your house keys in your pocket, your phone in your bag and your money in your jacket.
• Try not to advertise your valuables, mobile phone, laptop, MP3 player, jewellery, watches.
• If someone tries to take something and you feel in danger, let it go.

If you are alone and think that you being followed:

• You can check if someone is following you by crossing the street – more than once, if necessary.
• Go to the nearest busy place or well-lit area and call the police on 999.
• Avoid enclosed spaces, e.g. an enclosed telephone box, as you could become trapped inside.
• If you are in immediate danger and there are other people about, call out for help.

There is more advice on our website http://www.psni.police.uk/crime-prevention.htm

It is also important to remember our 'One Punch' campaign.  Since 2004, 20 people have died as a result of One Punch attacks and many more have been seriously injured.

With just One Punch, lives have been destroyed and families’ lives have been wrecked.  The majority of these incidents are fuelled by alcohol and can have a devastating impact on the victim and their family. The offender will likely face a murder or manslaughter charge and have a criminal record for the rest of their life, this type of conviction also imposes restrictions on their ability to travel.  One moment of madness can have drastic consequences.

Be assured that we will have officers on duty across your area helping to keep you safe but we do need your help. 

Have a great New Year, but most importantly, Get Home Safe.