Police in Edinburgh have today launched their annual campaign to keep people safe during the festive season.
As part of Operation Greenland, (formerly Operation Astrodome) officers in the city centre will each day issue a special ‘Countdown to Christmas’ photo on social media. The image will relate to a specific theme of festive safety or update the public on policing activity being carried out over Christmas and New Year.
The public can receive these images and updates by liking the Edinburgh Division Facebook page and by following the @EdinCityPolice Twitter account.
Social media users can also join in the discussion about the campaign by using the hashtag #OpGreenland.
As always, officers within the Capital will provide a high-visibility presence across the city in the coming weeks to offer a range of crime prevention and personal safety advice.
In addition, police will specifically target busy areas and destinations during the holiday season to distribute specially designed leaflets that inform the public on how to ‘Shop Safe’ and ‘Party Safe’.
Chief Superintendent Mark Williams, Divisional Commander for the City of Edinburgh said: “Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful, vibrant and safe cities in the world, and the policing plans we’re announcing today means this is set to continue into the festive season and beyond.
“The city is already getting busier, with locals and visitors taking full advantage of the shopping and attractions on offer, and many people will soon be out enjoying festive nights out in the restaurants, pubs and clubs.
“We are keen to ensure people can have a safe and enjoyable time whilst soaking up the fantastic atmosphere that the city has to offer.”
Community Safety Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, Councillor Cammy Day, said: “Edinburgh is a safe place to visit and to live in, and our winter festival attracts people from around the world each year.
“We want to make sure that everyone will enjoy themselves and stay safe. I urge revellers to keep an eye on their belongings during a night out and to act responsibly.
“Working closely with the police and other agencies, our community safety wardens will be conducting high visibility patrols. Starting at the end of November, extra patrols will be out on Friday and Saturday evenings, and there will be a daily focus on the winter festival area.”
Ch Supt Williams said there are a number of simple steps you can take whilst enjoying the festive season. “Make sure you are always aware of your surroundings and keep your property safe when out and about. If you’re enjoying a night out in town then please drink responsibly and don’t let excessive alcohol consumption ruin your evening.
“This will also be our most interactive festive season yet and through social media we will issue a new ‘Countdown to Christmas’ photo each day with further information and advice. Members of the public can view these images by liking the Edinburgh Division Facebook page and following our @EdinCityPolice Twitter account.
“Updates on all Operation Greenland activity will also be available on these sites, as well as our @EdinburghPolice Twitter account, which covers the entire city.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
