Deb Hann – Senior Constable
The year is drawing to an end and this is my last column for 2023. What a year we have had! I want to start again this week with some good news.
An elderly local lady was at the shops on Shakespeare Street last weekend when she took a turn and fell heavily on her hip. A group of male teenagers saw what was happening and quickly assisted, staying with her for about an hour and calling ambulance. When the ambulance was delayed, they next approached a passing police officer, explained the situation and asked for further assistance. The constable drove the lady to medical attention himself. He was impressed by the quick and supportive actions of the youths. Tinopai!
As I leave you to your holidays, first and foremost, I thank you for your support. I have had many people say that they enjoy reading this column and I am glad it is helpful and of interest to the community.
As usual at this time of year, I also want to remind you to stay vigilant around home and vehicle security. We continue to see car thefts and interference. Trailers are also back on the thieves’ hit list. Be sure to utilise all security measures you have in place – keep your homes secure, if you have CCTV cameras, ensure they are charged and working. Close and lock driveway gates. Lock your cars when they are parked up and keep car keys in a separate safe location. Remove all valuables from your vehicles. If you have a trailer parked on your property, move it out of plain sight and secure it with a wheel clamp.
The harder it is for a thief to steal an item, the less attractive it becomes, or worst case, the more time it takes them, the greater the chance of detection and forensic evidence being left behind, If you are going away from home on holiday, let a neighbour know when you will be gone, have them clear mail and keep a close eye on your property – provide them with your contact details too.
And lastly, alcohol. Make good decisions around your drinking. When out and about socialising, make arrangements to get yourself and your friends home safely via a sober driver or taxi, or stay the night – don’t drive drunk.
Look out for each other and stay safe this holiday season. See you in the New Year.
