Police in Edinburgh are today urging the public to make sure they stay safe while out enjoying the festive party season.
This evening is expected to be the busiest night in town with thousands of people expected to attend various parties and events within the city centre.
High-visibility police patrols will be deployed throughout areas of the Capital likely to see increased footfall and officers have already began liaising with staff at Edinburgh’s pubs and clubs to remind them of their licensing responsibilities.
To ensure revellers are able to enjoy the festivities, police are providing advice and guidance on a range of issues.
The ‘Think Twice’ campaign continues to operate within the city and many licensed venues will be displaying posters urging the public to drink responsibly and not to become involved in alcohol-related criminal activity.
In addition, the Edinburgh Facebook and Twitter pages will also be displaying Police Scotland’s ‘Good Nights Out, Get Home Safe’ guidance, which provides useful information on getting to and from your evening’s entertainment.
Inspector Emma Croft said: “The party atmosphere in Edinburgh during the festive season is always a wonderful experience and we have been busy working alongside our relevant partner agencies to make sure the public remember their celebrations for all the right reasons.
“I would urge anyone planning on heading out to please drink responsibly and don’t let a great night be ruined by the over-consumption of alcohol.
“Our ‘Think Twice’ campaign means that anyone found to be involved in serious criminal behaviour associated with alcohol will be subject to strict bail conditions barring them from the city centre, should they be charged.
“Local officers have already been engaging with the various licensed venues within the city, who fully support this campaign and will work closely with police to identify any offences, which happen in or around their premises.
“We also want to make sure you stay safe throughout all parts of your evening, including your return home. If travelling throughout the city, try to travel with friends, family or people you trust and consider using the numerous taxi companies or public transport available within Edinburgh.
“If travelling on foot stick to well-lit areas and always be aware of your surroundings. All of this advice can be found in our ‘Good Nights Out, Get Home Safe’ leaflet, which is currently on our social media accounts.
“I would also like to remind revellers that the drink-drive limit has now changed in Scotland and Road Policing Officers are robustly monitoring all roads across the country. The chances of being caught have never been greater and it is quite simply not worth the risk. If you are in any doubt as to whether you are fit to drive, then don’t.”
“Anyone who would like more information on staying safe while enjoying the night-time economy, or who wishes advice on crime prevention can contact Police Scotland on 101, speak with their local policing team or visit our website at www.scotland.police.uk.”
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.
