While it’s certainly the season for giving for the majority, for some rogues it is the season of taking.
That’s the message which South Ayrshire Police and partners are reinforcing with their South Ayrshire Festive Safety Campaign, which launched today.
The campaign, which will run throughout the Christmas and New Year period, aims to ensure that residents, businesses, and visitors to the area enjoy the festive period safely.
Officers are issuing advice on looking after each other and belongings, with targeted patrols and increased visibility stepped up at peak times in shopping areas, hospitality and entertainment venues, as people prepare to enjoy the holidays.
Christmas shoppers are being urged to keep an eye on their wallets and bags, as these can be targeted by pickpockets, and to always pack gifts in the boot of your car, keeping them hidden from potential thieves.
And for revellers out enjoying a festive night out, officers are reinforcing the message of sticking with friends and planning a safe route home, reducing the risk of becoming an easy target for criminals.
Chief Inspector Kevin Lammie said: “We are once again preparing for a busy festive period.
“I hope people will heed our safety advice and act on it, taking the time to think about some simple preventative measures which will help keep them safe.
“When out shopping, keep your wallet and bag close to you, make it difficult for pickpockets and don’t forget to pack all the lovely gifts you’ve bought in the boot of your car – don’t leave anything visible for thieves to see.
“Of course the festive season is a time for everyone to enjoy and it’s a time for people to meet up with family and friends.
“I would encourage people to have fun but please do so safely - don’t drink too much and be seen as an easy target for criminals.
“Ensure you stay with your friends and think about how you will get home without putting yourself in harm’s way.
“Stay safe this season.”
The delivery of the campaign is in collaboration with partner agencies who also play a key part in its success.
They include South Ayrshire Council Thriving Communities and Licensing, Women’s aid, Street Pastors, St Andrews Ambulance, Scottish Fire & Rescue, and Taxi Marshalls, as well as specialist policing resources, such as the mounted branch and roads policing.
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