Force urges public not to let crime spoil their summer

WITH Olympic Games fever gripping the nation and the opening ceremony almost upon us, the force launches its late summer crime reduction campaign later this week.

Based on a predicted seasonal rise in reports of anti-social behaviour, sneak in burglary, theft and irresponsible drinking, the campaign aims to remind communities that it isn’t just the British weather that could ruin their summer if they don’t take simple steps to help reduce their chances of becoming a victim of crime.

The late summer campaign – to be launched by ACC Garry Forsyth on Thursday 26 July – is designed to capture the country’s current celebratory mood and build on the force’s successful operations for Euro 2012 and the Torch Relay as sports fans prepare for the arrival of the Olympic Games on Friday, the sun finally puts in an appearance and many people’s minds turn towards summer holidays.

The campaign’s four strands each carry their own simple crime reduction message which will be displayed across the West Midlands on billboards in hotspot areas, on a-frame trailers and the rears of public buses. The key messages are:

• Don’t make your night out a nightmare this summer… Drink responsibly, stay with friends and never drink and drive
• Don’t let thieves steal your summer… Keep your belongings close
• A burglar could ruin your summer… Don’t let them. Keep your home secure
• Consider others this summer… Don’t let anti-social behaviour ruin your summer – report it to police on 101

The outdoor advertising will direct members of the public to a brand new ‘Safer Summer’ microsite on the external force website dedicated to seasonal crime reduction advice tailored to the four strands of the campaign, with social media also being used to further reinforce the advice via Facebook and Twitter.

Moving forward, this new microsite will change quarterly to reflect seasonal threats throughout the year – ensuring that the force’s messaging remains current and targeted at all times.

The microsite will be supported by colourful postcards and leaflets containing safety advice to help reach audiences who may not have access to or be able to use the internet.

Contact your territorial communications manager or communications officer to find out more about the marketing materials being sent to your LPU to support the campaign locally.

For more details on forcewide campaigns, contact Zoe Lee, Claire Hobson or Darren Colley in the Organisational Communications team.