MEDIA RELEASE - Canterbury District
13 September, 2010
Agencies combine to help people keep safe
If you need to- seek help is the message from Canterbury Police to residents under pressure following a week full of stress and turmoil.
Acting District Commander, Detective Inspector Peter Read, said while there had been an increase in the number of people coming to the attention of agencies resources were in place to tackle the problem.
"All agencies involved in dealing with and reducing the number of victims of Family Violence are advising each other of their capacity so they are geared up to help.
"Members of the public can be confident that all services are capable from 111 call centres right through to the Family Court which is open and still processing Protection Orders."
Mr Read said the key message for people feeling under stress was to remove themselves where possible from the issue and seek help.
"We were incredibly lucky last week's earthquake occurred without any loss of life and it would be tragic if people allowed pressure to build up to the point where someone was hurt or worse by not seeking help."
Across Christchurch and in outlying areas joint Police and Army patrols continue their high visibility presence in the worst effected areas as part of Operation Reassure.
Officers have reported very good feedback from residents and had some simple advice on how residents could protect their homes.
"Though we're dealing with a far different scenario the advice is similar to when people leave their homes over holiday periods, that is, make your home a hard target for burglars.
"Talk to your neighbours, let them know what your plans are and how to get hold of you, lock your doors and windows and have someone clear your mail and newspapers and above all, if you see something suspicious, phone 111."
End
From tomorrow (Tuesday) media enquiries relating to the quake response should be referred to Southern Communications Manager Vivien Pullar on 027 5561814.