HOLIDAYMAKERS visiting mid Wales are being encouraged to report concerns about domestic violence while in the region.
The advice, from Dyfed-Powys Police, comes as right wing politicians, newspapers and media commentators have been criticised for the response and comments aimed at the neighbours of Conservative leadership candidate Boris Johnson.
Last week police attended at the flat of Mr Johnson’s girlfriend after being called by concerned neighbours who had overheard an argument.
Despite domestic violence charities and police stating the neighbours had followed best practice in reporting their concerns the neighbours' political opinions have been highlighted in the press and their motives questioned amid Mr Johnson’s bid to be Prime Minister.
But Dyfed-Powys Police said reporting concerns can be vital.
Temporary Assistant Chief Constable, Vicki Evans, said: "Many people worry that they will be interfering if they get involved, or think that it is a private matter, but your support can make a difference. We urge anyone concerned about a friend, neighbour or family member to pass us information so we can take action.
“Report concerns by calling 101. If someone is at immediate risk of harm, call 999."
The force is running an #EnjoyDPP campaign over the summer to offer practical advice to visitors to the area during the summer.
It says it will have a particular focus on domestic abuse which figures suggest rises over the summer months.
Ass Chief Constable Evans said: "We receive more reports of domestic abuse during July and August than at any other time of the year. We want to work with you to help people enjoy their holiday or day out – if you suspect or witness domestic abuse, please tell us.
“We understand it isn’t easy to talk about, so we have dedicated, specialist officers who can provide support. Domestic abuse is not only violence - physical, sexual, emotional or financial abuse, threats and damage are also ways to control people."
The influx of visitors over the summer combined with the diversity of the area brings challenges for the force, which they are experienced at dealing with. However, they’re asking for the public’s help to ease pressure on the front line.
“We’re appealing to visitors to help us out and this summer we are offering some simple advice to help people enjoy our unique region, safely," said the senior policewoman.
“We’re encouraging people to be sensible and mindful of risks they perceive around them – don’t ignore warning signs and pay attention to local weather forecasts.
“We police the safest area in England and Wales and want to support our communities and local businesses by maintaining that over the summer months.
Dyfed-Powys Police summer safety advice
1. Enjoy Our Towns
Antisocial behaviour rises over the summer months and can cause distress to local communities. Police officers can direct people to leave certain areas if their behaviour is considered unacceptable, and can confiscate items that are contributing to antisocial behaviour.**
Parents are reminded that the actions of their children are not the responsibility of the police. Be aware of what your children are doing, and where they are spending their evenings.
Officers are working with licensees to enforce Behave or Be Banned (BOBB) – a scheme which sees people banned from pubs, clubs and bars for bad behaviour. Problem customers are banned not just from the one pub but all that have signed up in the area. The scheme tackles both alcohol and drug misuse.
Neighbourhood Policing Teams will be on their usual patrols throughout the summer to help everyone enjoy themselves safely and with consideration for others.
2. Enjoy Our Events
Police officers and Police Community Support Officers will be attending events throughout the summer. Speak to them about crime prevention advice and to report any concerns.
Before you leave the house, consider taking a photograph of your child so you know what they’re wearing in case they become lost. Put a piece of paper with your contact number on their person, so you can be easily reunited.
Before you head in to an event, make sure your vehicle is locked and any valuables are safely out of sight.
3. Enjoy Our Waterways
RNLI’s Respect the Water campaign promotes a key piece of advice for people who find themselves unexpectedly in cold water. The charity says that a high proportion of people who drown off the UK’s coast are likely to have died after experiencing cold water shock. The campaign focuses on the simple skills people need to save a life. Here is the advice:
1. If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, float for 60-90 seconds to increase your chances of survival. That period of time will allow the effects of cold water shock to pass.
2. If you see someone else in trouble in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
Visit www.respectthewater.com for more information.
Be aware of the tide times when you are visiting the beach – People can become cut off very quickly. Visit: www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/tide-times for local timetables.
Respect local wildlife and never swim with dolphins, seals or porpoises – which can be safely observed from the coastal path or on a boat trip.
4. Enjoy Our Countryside
When you visit the countryside, small things make a big difference. Stick to these rules of thumb to help the locals and enjoy yourself considerately:
· Close gates after you;
· Keep dogs on leads;
· Don’t rely on satnav – bring a road map;
· Take note of road and footpath signs;
· Always lock up your vehicle; and
· Be patient with farm vehicles – they’re hard at work.
If you’re planning a walk in the hills or mountains, follow Brecon Mountain Rescue’s advice to help you enjoy yourself safely:
· Plan before you set out;
· Carry plenty of water;
· Take food with you;
· Bring a map and compass. Know how to use them;
· Monitor the conditions constantly; and
· Turn back if you are uncertain.
Visit www.breconmrt.co.uk for more mountain safety advice.
The risk of illegal raves rises with the good weather. These types of illegal gatherings can be distressing for the communities they set up in and cause real concerns for emergency services.
There are certain types of suspicious behaviour that are worth being aware of. If you see or experience any of these call police on 101.
· Unusual numbers of vehicles, especially camper vans, vans or trucks, seen in the locality.
· Illegal trespassers may recce sites in advance of any rave
· People may approach landowners and ask around for land, in the guise of hiring it for acceptable activities such as gymkhanas or scout camps.
· If you suspect anyone who approaches you for land hire might not be who they say they are, please do not hesitate to contact police.
· Social networks make it easier for organisers to spread the word – rave attendance numbers can grow hugely in short spaces of time, and locations can change quickly.
5. Enjoy Your Health
If you become unwell during your visit, the Choose Well guidance can help if you are unsure of the best health service to meet your needs. Access advice and local contacts from the webpage: www.choosewellwales.org.uk, or download the Choose Well app.