Police Communications Centres are gearing up for a busy Christmas and New Year period and have bolstered staff numbers to deal with the anticipated rise in calls.
National Communications Centre Manager, Superintendent Steve Fitzgerald says the Christmas/ New Year period is traditionally a very busy time for Centre staff.
Between 24 December 2004 and 5 January 2005, the Police Communications Centres nationally received 27,875 triple one calls (peaking at 2643 111 calls on 1 January 2005) and 50,274 non-emergency calls (peaking at 3293 calls on 31 December 2004).
"Based on last year's numbers, we've rostered on additional staff to contend with the increased call volumes.
Superintendent Fitzgerald says the fact that New Year's Eve falls on a Saturday this year is likely to result in an even busier time for Police.
"We're anticipating that given it's a weekend night, people will psychologically be in a more celebratory frame of mind. The results of this have consequences that invariably involve some sort of Police intervention."
Events and incidents that dominate calls for Police assistance and attendance during the festive season centre on the aggravating effects of alcohol, dangerous driving and unnecessary personal risk taking.
Northern Communications Centre Manager, Inspector Karen Wilson, says the holiday period can be a particularly intense time for families.
"The majority of calls we deal with over this time are generally domestic related or disorderly conduct. In almost all instances they are fuelled by alcohol and drugs.
"Things can get out of hand very quickly. People can stop the situation from escalating by taking a bit of time out, not drinking too much, and not overspending.
"You don't need to resort to violence to sort out your issues," she says.
Inspector Wilson however is emphatic that should anyone fear for themselves or their children's safety they should call 111.
Central Communications Centre Manager, Inspector Gary Allcock, says domestic violence and traffic incidents, such as dangerous and inconsiderate driving, tended to dominate the festive season last year, along with calls for emergency water rescues.
Southern Communications Centre Manager, Inspector Kieren Kortegast, says the combination of fun, sun and alcohol result in increased disorderly behaviour and domestic disputes.
"People also appear to be more adventurous during this time which can lead to more marine and mountain search and rescues," he says.
Superintendent Fitzgerald says while he hopes everyone has a happy and safe Christmas and New Year, there will undoubtedly be those who need help from Police.
"I'd therefore like to remind people that the 111 emergency number is not to be used as just another play thing when they tire of their Christmas gifts.
"People should only call 111 when they need immediate help with a life threatening or time critical emergency, such as:
• A person or people is/are seriously injured or in danger
• There is a serious risk to life or property
• A crime is being or has just been committed and the person or people involved is/are nearby
• There is a major public inconvenience (e.g. a State Highway is blocked by fallen trees)
• When any of the above is happening now or has just happened
Superintendent Fitzgerald says it's important to remember there are only so many emergency services resources to go round.
"By not overburdening the 111 system, the public can help us provide our services as quickly as possible where they are most needed."
Examples of correct 111 usage:
• "My neighbours house is being burgled and the burglar is still inside."
• "I’ve just seen a car crash and it looks like people are seriously injured."
• "Gang members are fighting in the street and some of them are armed."
Examples of non-urgent calls - don't use 111:
• "Can you put me through to lost property."
• "I have had a power cut and I have no candles."
• "Do you know a good stain remover."
These examples are NOT emergencies and can either be resolved without police involvement or by telephoning or visiting your nearest Police Station.
Communications Centre staff wish everyone a happy Christmas and a safe and enjoyable holiday season.
ENDS