A NUMBER of initiatives are being undertaken to help ensure Islanders enjoy a safe and happy Christmas and New Year holiday.
Various IW Council departments are working with police and the IW NHS Primary Care Trust on schemes ranging from road safety campaigns to offering advice on how to keep unwanted burglars at bay.
“We are not looking to be killjoys — quite the opposite,” said Cllr Diana Tuson, IW Council cabinet member for Safer Communities.
“Christmas and New Year is a time to be celebrated. We want people to make the most of the seasonal fun but do so in a way that does not expose them or other people to risk or harm.”
In the run-up to the holiday period, police are already out and about filming ‘You’ve Been Shamed’ videos of drinkers in their late teens acting inappropriately while under the influence of alcohol.
These videos are then played back to those filmed so they can see how they appeared in the cold light of day. Where appropriate, this is followed up through home visits or referral to the Get Sorted team.
Police will also be continuing high visibility patrols in areas commonly enjoyed by revellers.
The police are also keen to re-enforce common-sense security advice such as not leaving presents on doorsteps or in unlocked porches. On-going campaigns such as those tackling domestic violence, criminal damage and other violent behaviour will also be stepped up over the festive period.
The Island’s Road Safety Forum has launched a major anti drink-drive campaign. This will involve two events in St Thomas’ Square, the first was held in St Thomas’ Square at the weekend and the second will be held this Saturday between 5 and 10pm.
As well as offering advice on the dangers of drink-driving, the teams will also be distributing glow sticks to party-goers as a constant reminder of the perils of taking the wheel while above the legal limit.
The IW Council’s licensing department have been undertaking tests purchasing operations to identify retailers who are selling alcohol to those under the legal limit.
In addition, trading standards also organised for the theatre group Last Orders to perform a cautionary tales of the dangers of alcohol abuse to Carisbrooke High pupils on December 5 and Sandown High School the following Day.
Trading standards also attended the Christmas Tree Festival held in Brighstone, where they offered help and information to members of the public.
