Safer Newport is urging people to be responsible while out celebrating on the last Friday before Christmas.
Dubbed “Black Friday”, it is traditionally one of the busiest nights of the year.
Gwent Police have increased officer numbers to reduce alcohol-fuelled disorder in Newport throughout the run-up to Christmas and New Year.
Inspector Bob Thompson, of Newport Local Policing Unit, said:
“Our officers will be out in force on busy nights to help keep everyone safe, but we also want people to take responsibility for the amount they drink and their own actions.”
Councillor David Fouweather, Newport City Council’s cabinet member for environment and community safety, said:
“Together, with our partners we have a range of initiatives aimed at reducing crime and disorder this Friday, and other nights, and to try and ensure everyone has an enjoyable, but safe, time.”
- The police will be in constant communication with door staff, CCTV operators, street pastors and taxi marshals to target their resources effectively.
- Street pastors: local church member volunteers who help the emergency services by providing a friendly, non-threatening presence to prevent people under the influence of alcohol causing trouble or hurting themselves.
- City Centre CCTV suite with 46 cameras, operational 24 hours a day
- 365 days a year, helps to detect and prevent crime
- Cab Safe: Anyone in need of a taxi can text CAB to 83222 to receive a text back with the numbers of three randomly-picked and regulated private hire/hackney carriages closest to their location
- Welsh Ambulance Service will have a roving triage with support from St John’s Ambulance.
- Taxi marshals will also be in the city centre to help people get home safely. Their presence had reduced incidents of disorder and violence.
Health bosses also pointed out that the Royal Gwent Hospital is always under increased pressure over the Christmas period so ask people to consider the following advice before attending please Accident and Emergency or dialling 999 for an ambulance.
If you are feeling unwell call NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47 and speak to a nurse advisor. It you have a loss of consciousness, difficult breathing, suspected heart attack, heavy blood loss, serious injury or severe burns call 999.
For more information about Safer Newport contact 01633 656 656.
