Inspector Mark Britton of the Roads Policing Unit says: “As the weekend approaches we have the combined threat of the deterioration of weather conditions and a weekend that is traditionally busier for the Constabulary and other emergency services. Officers from the Police will be focusing on the key areas and there are some additional resources in place to come with any increase in demand. I repeat the messages that I have given before. Please take care, look at the conditions before you travel. If conditions really deteriorate then avoid travel unless absolutely essential. I would also add that for this planning to go out on Friday please consider that you may have to factor the weather into your plans. Please do not making drinking and driving a part of those plans. Officers will still be in a position to act to enforce the current drink drive campaign.” He added “I would like to remind the public that the 999 system is there for genuine emergencies only. Please only call 999 in a genuine emergency and call 631212 in the event of any other issue. I would like to reassure the public that we will attend all emergencies however our vehicles could also be hindered by the adverse weather conditions and it may take us a little longer to get you. We are going to have to prioritise our work and react accordingly. I would also ask that you seriously consider the need to contact the emergency services before dialling 999, ensuring that we can focus on the people who need us the most.” Inspector Shimmin of Douglas NPT reiterates his recent message. “Douglas is a great place to come and visit at Christmas as there’s plenty to see and do. I want everyone to have a good time and stay safe and my officers will be focused on making sure that everyone’s safety is paramount. Extra police officers will be deployed in key locations at key times in achieving this aim. Officers have been visiting shops and businesses to provide advice on security and crime prevention. Known offenders can also expect some additional attention to prevent offences being committed. I would like to reinforce the anti drink-drive message and appeal to people who have been drinking not to get behind the wheel of their car as the consequences of this can be devastating. Additional patrols will be out and about at key times and I hope that this may act as a deterrent to those considering drinking and driving as well as detecting offences and dealing with those who don’t heed the message. We will also be working closely with licensed premises in order to encourage responsible drinking and deal with those who choose not to be responsible and commit offences. Those who drink to excess and cause problems can expect to be arrested and removed from the streets. I can guarantee anyone who is arrested for drunkenness or disorder that they will appear in court. This may result in a variety of punishments, including imprisonment, and bans from licensed premises. On behalf of all of my team, I would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas.” ENDS