JOY Burch and Chief Police Officer Rudi Lammers have launched ACT Policing’s 2014-15 Safe Summer campaign, urging the community to enjoy the festive season responsibly.

“The summer period is a busy time for everyone, with Christmas parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations, and upcoming events which attract large crowds, such as Summernats, Australia Day and Prime Minister’s XI cricket match,” Joy said.

“The Safe Summer campaign targets alcohol and drug consumption, road safety and personal safety, to make sure that everyone has a safe and happy summer period.

“Unfortunately, intoxicated people become more vulnerable to either committing a crime, or becoming a victim of crime. One of the most effective ways to stop alcohol-fuelled violence is to reject risky practices, such as binge-drinking. We must send the message that we don’t want it, and we don’t want to associate with those who do.”

The 2013-14 Safe Summer campaign saw a decrease of 39 per cent in alcohol-related violence incidents, a 22 per cent decrease in fines for anti-social behaviour, and a 47 per cent reduction in fines issued for urination in public places, compared to summer 2012-13.

Police will maintain a highly visible presence on ACT roads throughout the summer, targeting speeding, impaired and high-risk drivers, with a push towards a zero road toll for the Christmas/New Year period.

“Building a safe, secure community is a partnership in which all stakeholders – licensees, police, government and the public – have important roles to play,” Ms Burch said.

Safe Summer will run until 28 February 2015. For more information, visit www.police.act.gov.au/safesummer.

[Photo: Rudi Lammers, Joy Burch and the AHA’s Brad Watts]