Keeping Safe This Christmas

Are you out and about in December? At your Office Party or Christmas Lunch? Or just out with friends? Here are a few pointers that will help to keep you safe this Christmas.

Epping Forest District Council Safer Communities team wish you all a safe Christmas and New Year
• Always plan your journey.
• If you do not know where you are going, find out before leaving.
• If you are using public transport, check timetables and connections. Make a travel plan and stick to it. Do not get stuck and miss a last bus or train.
• Arrange for someone to pick you up at the end of the evening.
• If you have your own transport whether it be car, motorcycle or pedal cycle it should be roadworthy and maintained and do not drink any alcohol!
• Only carry what you really need to take with you.
• Only travel in licensed Hackney Carriages (Black Cabs in London) or reputable Car Hire firms (pre-book your car). Do not under any circumstances use unlicensed operators who may offer transport services in the street.
• Travelling late on buses always sit as close as possible to the driver.
• Travelling late on trains. Sit in carriages where there is more than one group of people. Try to sit close to a door so that if you feel unsafe you can get off quickly.
• Avoid using mobile phones and portable music systems when you are walking along. These are items that thieves like to steal and they also reduce your awareness of your surroundings.
• Enjoy yourself responsibly if you are going to drink alcohol.
• Don't accept drinks from people you don't know in case they have been 'spiked' - STAY ALERT.
• Take care at cash machines, only take out what you need and don't allow others to look over your shoulder during the transaction.
• Keep your belongings with you at all times when you are out and about. Thieves target places where people are easily distracted such as pubs, restaurants, cafes and shops.
• Always let someone know where you are going.
• Ladies, when you are having a dance at your party keep your handbag / purse with you at all times or have a friend look after it along with coats, etc.
• Gentlemen, don't leave your wallets in your coat pockets. If there is a supervised service for depositing coats, etc. use it.