Emergency services in Moray have urged members of the public to think about personal safety and planning their journey home in the run up to Christmas.
As part of the festive campaign Safer Streets which targets antisocial behaviour and violence officers have encouraged people to enjoy their party nights out but to do so safely and responsibly.
Taxi Marshalls are again being deployed in Elgin as part of the Moray Community Safety Partnership’s campaign. They will offer assistance to customers and drivers during the peak periods.
Moray Chief Inspector Willie Findlay said: “Moray is a very safe place to go out in and enjoy yourself. But remember your responsibilities to yourself and others. Make arrangements to get home safely and remember to bear in mind the lower drink driving limit. There will be extra police patrols but we want people to take responsibility for their own actions and make sure you get home safely.
“The simplest rule is if you are driving don’t drink. We would also ask that you consider how much you drink. Go out enjoy yourself, drink responsibly, look after yourself and your friends. Keep safe this Christmas”.
Manager of Scottish Women’s Aid Elle Johnston, speaking on behalf of Moray Domestic Abuse Partnership, said: “Christmas can often cause strain on relationships which can manifest itself in acts of aggression and violence. We ask that you look after the ones you love and treat them with the dignity and respect they deserve. Scottish Women’s Aid and other services are open throughout the festive period and can offer support and help if needed.”
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Station Manager Anna Rogers said: “If you’ve been drinking alcohol, don’t cook. Smoking is the main cause of death from fire in the home. You are more likely to lose your life in a fire if you drink and smoke. In many fires started by cigarettes, people have also been drinking and are sleepy.
“This winter we will work closely with local communities and partner agencies to keep the wider Moray area safe from fire and other emergencies – but as always, we need the public’s help to reduce the amount of preventable fires we might see in the coming months. If you or someone you know may be at risk from fire, please get in touch now and arrange a free Home Fire Safety Visit by calling 0800 0731 999 or visiting www.firescotland.gov.uk/winter”