Shop safely for Christmas
As my penultimate column before Christmas, I thought it would be fitting to cover some of the issues which may arise over the coming weeks as we enter the festive season.
I’d like to enlist your help to reduce that possibility and keep you and your belongings safe.
While it will not be the traditional holiday with festivities in the form that we have come to expect, we should remain alert to some seasonal trends.
In light of the easing of some restrictions, with Renfrewshire assigned Tier 3 status, the footfall in town centres and shopping areas will increase as shoppers return for those last minute presents.
Firstly, please adhere to the coronavirus regulations and guidance to reduce the spread of the virus, but, if your shopping journey is essential, please ensure that you keep your personal belongings secure and do not leave anything of value visible within your vehicle.
Equally, keep your homes protected and consider security measures, such as lighting and keeping presents concealed from windows and prying eyes.
Our officers will continue to work hard, as they have done throughout the pandemic, to prevent and detect crimes in the local area.
We will also have additional patrols in the busier areas, so please do approach your local officers if you have any concerns you wish to raise.
While our pubs and other licensed premises may be closed, we appreciate that many office parties will be taking place virtually.
When in the house, it can be extremely difficult to gauge your alcohol intake and, as a result, you may consume more than intended, which can render you unfit to drive for a considerable length of time, including the morning after.
This clearly presents a huge risk not only to yourself, but also to other road users, so, in conjunction with our roads policing colleagues, we will be supporting the drink-drive campaign again this season.
After a year like 2020, I can only assume a conviction of this nature would be the present you never wanted, so I would urge you not to drink if you are driving the next day and to reconsider your journey if you are in any doubt.
As always, if you have any concerns regarding any of the issues highlighted, or any other crimes to report or information to provide, please contact
101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.