Residents in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are being urged to take extra care this Christmas and New Year as part of a scheme.
The Celebrate Safely campaign is asking people to help keep themselves, their friends and family and their homes and valuables safe over the festive period.
To help, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, Leicestershire Police, Leicestershire County Council, Leicester City Council and a number of district and borough councils across the county have been working together to share important safety messages and advice, as well as reminding the public how to celebrate safely.
There are a number of key messages that the Celebrate Safely campaign is focusing on during this festive period, and these are based on:
- Keeping warm and safe;
- Distractions while cooking;
- The use of candles;
- Decorative lights and fireworks;
- Driving; and
- How to protect yourself
Andrew Brodie, assistant chief fire and rescue officer, said: “December is a time of year when our local communities like to join in with festive celebrations.
“The Celebrate Safely campaign helps the public stay safe during these periods by offering useful safety tips and advice, put together by all local public-sector agencies.
“We want everyone to have fun but, we urge people to keep themselves, their families and friends safe, as well as their property and belongings.
“On behalf of everyone at Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, I would like to wish you all a safe and merry Christmas and New Year.”
Christmas is a time to celebrate with friends and family, but it is important to keep the Celebrate Safely messaging in mind. You will then be able to have a fun and enjoyable festive period.
Person:Councillor Ivan Ould, cabinet member for community safety
Local policing Superintendent Shane O’Neill, added: “December is always a busy time and people may be a little more absent minded due to the amount that they have going on.
“This can lead to people taking more risks than normal, leaving their purchases on display, or forgetting to lock their doors or vehicles.
“Taking a few extra minutes to check you’ve locked up and not left purchases on show can help you and your family enjoy Christmas.
“On behalf of Leicestershire Police, I would like to wish you all a very happy and safe Christmas.”
Deputy city mayor Councillor Piara Singh Clair, the city council’s lead on community safety, said: “We’d like everyone to be able to celebrate safety over Christmas, and hope the advice being offered will help people to do this.”