Steps to staying safe when out over this Christmas Period

Dear Resident, 

                   Steps to staying safe when out over this Christmas Period 

Christmas and New Year is a time when some of us celebrate by meeting up with family, friends and colleagues.

Amid the celebrations and fun, it is important that some sensible measures are taken to help everyone keep safe.

Here are some simple steps to stay safe over the Christmas and New Year period: -

By taking on board these top tips on staying safe, you’ll help yourself to have a great time whilst out and about.
 

        1. Safety in numbers

Always try and stay within a group where possible. By remaining close to the people you trust and know well, you’ll help to reduce the risk of being targeted by people who are up to no good and could be out to take advantage.

       2. Arrange a lift or get a registered taxi if you can

When travelling at night, if you can, get a lift with someone you trust. Failing that, if you can afford it, its best to book a registered cab/taxi – it’s worth that little extra expense to ride in a comfortable cab/taxi and get home safety. If travelling by bus, its best to sit on the lower deck, as this is closer to the exit and within sight of the bus driver should there be a problem. 
 

        3. Drink in moderation and watch your drink

Alcohol dulls your instincts and can lead you to make unsafe decisions. Keep a close eye on your drinks and don’t leave them unattended, this is so that you can minimise the risk of them being spiked. Also – and you might not know this, as not much has been said about it – watch out for strangers offering you their vapes. Vapes, just like drinks can be spiked too.

         4. Stay in well-lit areas

If walking home after a night out, always stay in well-lit areas, where there are plenty of other people around. People are less likely to commit a crime if there is good lighting, CCTV and also people around to see what is happening. Always plan a route home and make sure you stick to places you know. Never take short cuts, especially down dark allies, by canals or through unlit parks.
 

          5. Keep valuables hidden

Don’t advertise your mobile phone to people on the street – keep it hidden. People will often have valuable stolen on a night out and if you’re drunk, you are an easier target. Keep all valuables like phones, wallets and purses in zipped pockets or bags. Ideally, leave valuables such as jewellery at home, but if you must take them out with you, then keep them safety hidden. 
 

6.  Walk away from hostile situations

Don’t be a hero on a night out. If there is a fight or an argument, stay out of it and get help from the venue bouncers or call the police.

Stay safe

Kind regards

Wimbledon Park SNT