As the festive season reaches its peak, Geelong's top police officer has issued a heartfelt plea to the community, urging everyone to prioritise safety and responsibility to ensure a joyful and tragedy-free holiday period.
Superintendent Reid's Direct Message to the Geelong Community
Superintendent Michael Reid, the Geelong Police Division's commander, has released his annual Christmas safety list, a set of crucial reminders tailored for the local community. His message comes during a period traditionally marked by increased social gatherings, travel, and, unfortunately, heightened risks on roads and in public spaces.
"My Christmas wish is for everyone to have a safe and happy festive season," Superintendent Reid stated, framing his advice as a direct appeal to residents' common sense and care for one another. His guidance is not just about enforcement but about fostering a collective effort to protect lives and wellbeing across the Greater Geelong region.
Road Safety: The Non-Negotiable Priority
A central pillar of the Superintendent's message is road safety, a critical concern during the holidays. Police will be maintaining a highly visible presence on Geelong's road network, conducting targeted operations to deter the "fatal five" driving behaviours.
These are:
- Speeding
- Drink and drug driving
- Driver distraction (including mobile phone use)
- Failure to wear seatbelts
- Fatigued driving
Reid emphasised the devastating consequences of poor decisions behind the wheel, noting that a moment of recklessness can irrevocably change lives. He urged drivers to plan ahead, take breaks on long trips, and never get behind the wheel if impaired. The message is clear: arriving safely is more important than arriving quickly.
Security at Home and in Public Spaces
Beyond the roads, Superintendent Reid highlighted the importance of personal and property security. With many families travelling or attending events, he advised residents to take simple, effective precautions.
"If you're going away, make sure your home looks lived in," he recommended, suggesting the use of timer lights and asking a trusted neighbour to collect mail. For those out celebrating in Geelong's entertainment precincts, he urged people to stay aware of their surroundings, plan their journey home, and look out for friends.
The police commander also reminded the community that emergency services remain fully operational over the break. He encouraged people to trust their instincts and report suspicious activity or emergencies by calling Triple Zero (000) or contacting Crime Stoppers anonymously.
A Shared Responsibility for a Safe Celebration
Superintendent Reid's list ultimately frames safety as a shared community responsibility. It's a call for individuals to make smart choices, for groups to watch out for each other, and for the entire Geelong community to work together with police.
"Let's all do our part to make sure we see the New Year in safely," he concluded, reinforcing that a successful police operation is one where no lives are lost and families can celebrate without incident. This proactive, community-focused approach from Geelong Police aims to set the tone for a festive season defined by joy and caution in equal measure.
