Keeping you safe this Festive season

18th December 2023 | Community

As the festive season of 2023 begins, Harborough Community Safety Partnership, Christmas Presence campaign is here to remind you to keep safe throughout the season.

Safety out shopping

If you’re heading out to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the shops to do your Christmas shopping, then think ahead

  • park in well-lit carparks with CCTV
  • don’t frequently return to the car to drop of presents on the back seat before you return to the shops or for dinner
  • make sure that handbags are zipped shut and that pocketed wallets/phones and keys are all out of easy pickings
  • put shopping in the boot out of sight.

Safety on a night out

If you’re planning a night out on the town or the office party, then remember to

  • Plan ahead and make provision for getting home safely.
  • Look after other friends and don’t let them walk home alone.
  • Use the Ask Angela scheme in pubs should you be getting unwanted attention.

Safety at home

There are also safety tips for whilst at home too

  • One of the single most important things to do on these dark nights is to make your home look busy. Time-able main lights and plugs give the home a sense of someone being in and our talking electronic friend can programme radios and TVs to come on
  • Trying to create a Christmassy feel to your home?  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. Unplug fairy lights when you leave the house or go to bed
  • Don’t display Christmas presents around your Christmas tree and in full view of the neighbourhood
  • Turn off all Christmas lights before going to bed. Never leave fairy lights on unattended and make sure they are not near anything that may cause a fire

Safety with finances

And whilst Christmas can be an expensive time of the year

  • Still don’t pay for anything by transferring money directly to people or companies you don’t know. If it’s a fraud, it’s doubtful the bank will be able to recover or refund your money. The safest way to pay for anything is by credit card.
  • Stay safe, borrow responsibly, remember loan sharks should be avoided because they will make a difficult financial situation much worse. If you need to borrow money, check the lender is authorised and regulated by the Financial Code.

Home should be a safe place, but if you are suffering from domestic abuse remember you are not alone, contact FREEVA the support service for domestic abuse or sexual violence 0808 8020028 for Leicestershire.

Cllr Darren Woodiwiss, Harborough District Council’s portfolio holder for Community Safety Partnerships, said: “While we want everyone in the Harborough district to enjoy the festivities, we ask residents to be vigilant and careful this Christmas by following the advice from your Community Safety Partnership. Be smart and stay safe.”

More information and advice can be found on our website www.harborough.gov.uk/community-­­­safety