Christmas partygoers warned to stay 'streetwise' by gardaí in Limerick

GARDAÍ in Limerick have cautioned Christmas partygoers to be “streetwise” this festive season.

“Crime can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere” say gardaí, as they issue a personal safety message in the run-up to Christmas.

Garda John Finnerty of Henry St garda station said: “Many people are attending office parties on the run-up to Christmas and most people will be out socialising over the Christmas period also.

“Our advice is to stay streetwise and not to put yourself in a vulnerable position. 

“Stay in the company that you know. The consumption of alcohol, drugs or other toxic substances not only diminishes your senses but makes you particularly attractive to criminals. 

“If you observe criminal behaviour, leave the area and call the gardaí.”

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Garda Finnerty also said people should “stay on well-lit streets and walk against the flow of traffic, never get involved in other peoples disputes or respond to taunts or snide remarks by others” and, “before you go out for the night, plan on how you will get home safely”. 

In terms of home and personal security, garda Finnerty notes that this time of year is particularly attractive for thieves.

“Thieves think that they won’t be caught, and the victim thinks that it won’t be him or her.

“The reality is very different. Not every thief will get caught, but every victim will suffer,” he said.