Extra patrols for Christmas celebrations across Merseyside

As Christmas fast approaches, we are expecting the weekends to be busy in the city, in our towns, in our shops, pubs, bars and clubs and we are urging our communities to celebrate sensibly this year.
 
Chief Inspector Christopher Bland, Op Shepherd Lead said: "We know the next few weekends will be busy in the city and in other town centres and areas across our region.
 
“We will have an increased police presence each weekend throughout the Christmas build up, targeting the minority of people who are intent on causing misery over the festive period, whether that’s by stealing people’s belongings or committing violent offences. We also have officers deployed in and around the night time economy (NTE) locations, where they will be looking out for those engaged in predatory behaviour towards women and girls. If you see someone behaving in a way which concerns you, let us know.”

Chief Inspector Christopher Bland added: “For those who visit the shops, bars, clubs and restaurants, we want them to do so safely and get home safely. Please plan ahead.  We want everyone to have an enjoyable weekend.”

As part of #Op Shepherd, our annual campaign to reduce crime and keep our communities safe during the festive season you will see more officers out and about in the run up to Christmas and into the New Year.  We will use uniformed and plain-clothes officers, plus specialist teams including the Dog Section, Mounted Section and Roads Policing to help keep you safe.

The operation will run throughout the festive period and into the New Year, with extra officers policing the vibrant night-time economies of the city and busy town centres throughout Merseyside.

Officers are linked in with CCTV operators and work in partnership with local businesses, door staff, licensees and bar staff to help make sure you feel safe whilst enjoying a night out.

We ask that communities help us by continuing to report offences or any suspicious behaviour so we can ensure people’s Christmas and New Year are remembered for the right reasons.

We also ask that people embrace the spirit of Christmas and remember that it’s not an easy time for some – please look out for each other.
 
Take care of your valuables
When carrying a bag or handbag, check it's closed with the opening facing towards your body, especially in crowded areas.
Don't leave shopping bags on display in your car.
Keep your wallet or valuables out of sight if you can.
 
Getting home
Plan your journey home before you set off - pre-book a taxi, or arrange a lift with a non-drinking driver - and go home with friends if you can.
You can make sure you get home safely by using a private-hire company, whether you book your taxi beforehand by phone, or take a properly licensed Hackney Cab.

If you are walking, keep to busy and well-lit streets where possible.
 
Cash points and carrying money
Take care at cash points - look around before inserting your card. If you see somebody suspicious hanging around the cashpoint, walk away and go back later.

Only take out what you need, don't walk around with bundles of cash in your pockets.

Always call 999 if a crime is in progress. You can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

You can also call 101 or DM us @MerPolCC or Merseyside Police Contact Centre | Facebook.