Although Christmas is a wonderful fun-filled time for families, it is also another opportunity for offenders to strike. There are numerous areas in life where you can be more at risk of crime over the festive period. You are at risk of having money cards or goods stolen whilst you are out shopping. Car thefts and break-ins are also increasing at this time of year.
It is also the season when we are attending a lot of parties and are at risk of being spiked, assaulted or raped. Alcohol can reduce inhibitions and can also give you a false sense of security. You are less likely to be vigilant after a couple of drinks so it is best to plan your safety.
Burglaries increase at this time of year too, so it is important to plan and make sure your home is safe over Christmas. There are lots of things that you do to ensure your property is as safe as possible.
During the festive season, most people drink more. Once a person has had a drink their inhibitions and decision making skills are impaired. Road safety is something that the police take very seriously and there are much more police out stopping people during December. And, no, it isn’t to fund their Christmas party by issuing fines! It is to keep you and all other road users safe.
The final area you can be more at risk over the festive period is in your own home. It is also a known fact that occurrences of domestic violence are increased during Christmas (as well as other holidays and sporting events). This can be inflated by jealousy over other people at parties and gatherings, by increased alcohol consumption, and because it is a very emotive time of the year for some people.
It would be too much to cover all of these in one blog. After all, we are all really busy over Christmas so who has the time to read a lengthy blog? Therefore, I have decided to cover each aspect in a short video. Hopefully, that will make it easier for you to listen to at the end of a long day Christmas shopping and partying.
These videos will replace the usual criminal psychology and psychological analysis videos during December. Head over to Youtube and search Crimepsych. You can subscribe and be notified of each new video.
If you have any questions about safety over Christmas get in touch. If there is any aspect you want me to cover then get in touch. Don’t forget to share your Christmas safety tips in the comments section.
Merry Christmas. Stay safe
Dr H x
