Anti-social behaviour Christmas clamp down

Anti-social behaviour blighting the festive season in Bristol is not going to be tolerated this year.

Public agencies partnership Safer Bristol, will be working on reducing drunken behaviour, crime and tackling the causes of house fires.

In December 2008, there were 454 house burglaries in Bristol, something Safer Bristol Community Safety Officer, Neil Burwell is keen to avoid this year.

Neil said: “Christmas is the perfect chance for opportunist burglars as they know there are going to be more valuables around. Many burglaries could easily be prevented by taking a few simple precautions. We’re making sure that residents get the information they need to reduce their chances of becoming victims.”

High visibility patrols will be taking place in target areas and police will be giving out advice on looking after personal property in case of theft.

But it is not just bad behaviour that will be tackled. Avon Fire and Rescue attended 87 house fires last Christmas, all of which was found to be caused by an electric heater or open fire.

During the festive period, the fire service will be visiting groups of vulnerable people to provide advice on reducing the risk of fires.

Station Manager Neil Liddington from Avon Fire & Rescue Service said: “During the winter the most important safety precaution you can take is to make sure you have a working smoke alarm. These should be checked weekly as it really can save your life.”

To report a crime anonymously call CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111. For more information please call Safer Bristol on 0117 914 2222.