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Advice to both revellers and
shoppers in the run up to Christmas
AHEAD of 1 of the busiest weekends of
the year for our City and Town Centres across the county, Merseyside Police have
issued advice to ensure visitors to our nightlife and shops, remain safe during
the festive period. Thousands of visitors and residents are expected to
make the most of the county?s retail facilities, as well as the many bars, clubs
and pubs. Chief Superintendent Mark Wiggins said:-
"Merseyside is a great place to shop and socialise and we are expecting hundreds
of thousands of people to come to the area over the course of this weekend,
making it 1 of the busiest all year. We want people to come into Merseyside to
enjoy themselves and get home safely. We will be targeting the minority of
people, intent on causing misery over the Christmas period, whether that?s by
stealing people?s belongings or committing violent offences, but we also want
people to take responsibility for themselves. Our message to people is; take
some simple steps; keep your bag fastened and phones hidden, stay together and
drink responsibly. We hope that by taking some simple steps everyone can have a
safe and happy Christmas."
Here are some simple steps people out socialising can take to ensure they stay
safe:-
► Stay with your friends, stay in a group and look out for each other.
► Don?t accept drinks from strangers and don't leave your drink unattended, even
if it?s a soft drink. ► Drink sensibly; not only can drinking too much put you in vulnerable
situations but it can also lead some people to get involved in situations they
would not normally. ► Plan how you?re getting home before you go out. Pre-book your cab and stay
with your friends. ► If you?re parking in the City or Town Centres, park with care particularly at
night. Park in busy well lit areas and avoid parking in quiet side roads.
► If you?re shopping, don?t leave your presents or any valuable items in your
car. ► While you?re out and about, keep your purse and phone hidden; keep your
handbags close to you, ensure they are fastened securely and kept closed at all
times to prevent easy access.
► Those carrying wallets are reminded to keep them out of sight and reach,
perhaps within an inside jacket pocket.
Ch Supt Wiggins added:- "I would like to reassure the public that there
will be an increased police presence in the City and town centres over this busy
time and if anyone has any concerns, they can always speak with an Officer on
the street or alternatively contact:- 101 or in an emergency always dial:- 999."
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