Taking personal responsibility aids everyone’s safety

As 2012 comes to an end and the South Waikato Community gears up for Christmas and New Year celebrations, the Tokoroa and Putaruru police would like to pass on some key messages to ensure it is a happy and safe period for most. These are timely reminders for some as this time of year often brings about extra pressures for people, whether that is from whanau or expenditure it does have a negative effect on occasions.

Alcohol is a factor in 31 per cent of all recorded offences and is a key factor in all crime areas, including violence, family violence, thefts, and car crashes. As a result, reducing alcohol-related harm is a key priority for the police and we are involved in a number of different activities in this area with an increased focus over this period.

Ensuring the safety of our com- munities on the roads within our district is also a priority for police. However, we need to work alongside the public to reduce road trauma and personal responsibility is far more powerful than police enforcement activity. Bad driving practices should be reported immediately on 111 or *555 so we can intervene and prevent future incidents of bad driving.

Finally, with many going away it’s a good time to review home security and make neighbours and family aware of your absence. If they see anything suspicious they should ring 111 immediately. Alternatively if they would like to provide confidential information, phone Crimestoppers’ 0800 555 111. The team at the Tokoroa police would like to wish the community a very merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year, and we look forward to continuing to provide a quality service to the South Waikato. Go the Bulldogs in 2013.