With Christmas just around the corner, Police in Canterbury District want to make sure that people don't become victims of crime over the holidays, or spend the festive season locked in a cell.
The 12 Crimes of Christmas campaign will see crime prevention and safety messages posted daily on the Christchurch Police Facebook page, on each of the 12 days leading up to Christmas.
Alcohol-fuelled crime, burglary, scams, drink-driving, family violence and holiday safety tips are some of the themes that will feature, along with simple steps to help make this Christmas a happy one.
Canterbury Prevention Manager Inspector Richard Bruce says the 12 crimes featuring in this campaign are not necessarily restricted to Christmas.
"But this is a time when we are extra busy and stressed getting prepared for festivities and holidays, and have bigger social calendars," he says.
"We are more prone to taking our eye off the ball, relaxing our security and giving opportunists a chance to take advantage.
"There's nothing worse than having the family's Christmas presents stolen out from under the Christmas tree, or having the holidays spoiled by crashes on the road.
"It's also a time of celebration, with people enjoying work parties, family get-togethers and summer barbeques with a few drinks - but unfortunately there's a minority of people that take it too far.
"When people have too much alcohol on board they're likely to make poor decisions - and all too often we see them end up as offenders or victims of crime or crashes.
"Hopefully by reminding people of a few simple safety ideas we can reduce those risks and help people to have a safer and happier Christmas and New Year."
The campaign starts today [Friday] with a focus on party safety - with police encouraging party-goers to plan ahead, arrange safe transport and look after themselves and their mates.
ENDS
Inspector Richard Bruce,
Canterbury Prevention Manager