‘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 since it started in 2008, aims to ensure the festive season remains a safe one for all concerned.

This year, the campaign is promoting the county-wide ‘Celebrate Safely’ campaign and Leicestershire Police’s ‘It’s not worth the risk’ drink & drug driving campaign.

These will run alongside the CSP’s Drink Safe Stay Safe messages.

This year, the partners involved in the campaign include Fire Service, Police, Harborough District Council and substance misuse charity Turning Point.

There will be a Community Safety stall at Harborough Market on Tuesday 13 December and 27 December 2016 hosted by the police, fire service and Turning Point with safety advice and giveaways such as purse bells.

Sgt Kevin Manship of Harborough Police Station said: “We’re pleased to be working with the Community Safety Partnership 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
• Drink soft drinks in between alcoholic drinks
• 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 on display in your car
• Remember the Fatal 4

1. not wearing a seat-belt
2. drink driving
3. using a mobile phone whilst driving
4. excessive speed

• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

More tips on safer drinking can be found on the Drink Aware website www.drinkaware.co.uk

Follow @HarbCSP on Twitter and look out for the hashtags #celebratesafely #lockitorlooseit #drinksafestaysafe #christmaspresence