Celebrate safely this festive season

That’s the message from the Harborough District Community Safety Partnership (CSP) as it  launches its trouble-busting initiative Operation Christmas Presence.

The annual campaign, which has proved hugely successful in the 10 years since it started in 2008, aims to ensure the festive season remains a safe one for all concerned.

This year the CSP is promoting the county 'Celebrate Safely' campaign, the Police 'Lock it or Lose it' campaign, 'Fatal Four' and 'Get Safe' online internet safety messages.

This year, the partners involved in the campaign include Fire Service, Police, and Harborough District Council.

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.

For more information about Operation Christmas Presence email communitysafety@harborough.gov.uk or call 01858 828282 and speak to the Community Safety Team.

Useful tips and advice to help you celebrate Christmas Safely can be found at www.celebratesafely.com

More tips on safer drinking can be found at www.drinkaware.co.uk

You can also follow the campaign on Twitter @HarbCSP  #celebratesafely #lockitorloseit #drinksafestaysafe #christmaspresence