People urged to register with “Party Safe” this Christmas

The “Party Safe” message is getting through with more than 3900 parties registered with police so far this year.

Minister for Police Judy Spence and the Commissioner of Police Bob Atkinson said that figure is heartening.

“We’re urging all Queenslanders to party safe this Christmas,” Ms Spence said.

“No matter how careful you are there is always a chance that you may encounter some trouble at your party.

“If you’re planning a party this holiday season, particularly with young people, please ensure there is adequate adult supervision and work through the checklist in the Party Safe information.”

The Queensland Police Party Safe initiative provides community members with information to assist in holding successful, enjoyable and safe parties for everyone concerned including parents, hosts and guests.

Mr Atkinson said Queensland Police are keen to further encourage parents and party hosts to register their parties with their local police.

“You might be faced with verbal arguments between guests, people making excessive noise or even physical intimidation or violence. As a host, you have the right to set the standard of acceptable behaviour and ensure that it is maintained at your party,” Mr Atkinson said.

Ms Spence said parties can easily be registered by completing the registration form available on the Queensland Police Service website or at your local police station. Police ask that parties are registered at least seven days in advance

“When registering your party you are providing police with necessary details such as the location of the party, time the party will be held and expected numbers attending. As a result police are fully informed should they have to answer a call to attend your address,” Ms Spence said.

Ms Spence and Mr Atkinson both recommend the following tips in an effort to encourage safer parties and promote responsible alcohol management:

·Make entrance to the party by invitation only – this will discourage gate crashers.

·Don’t spread invitations via the internet, SMS or word of mouth.

·Clearly state on the invitation if the party is no alcohol permitted, BYO or alcohol supplied. If guests are not allowed to BYO then it is easier to control the alcohol that is served.

·Plan for adequate food and low and non-alcoholic drinks to be available for guests

·Only serve alcohol from one area and have a responsible adult serving

·Consider using a private security guard for your party. They can assist by politely asking uninvited or unruly people to leave. A security guard can check attendees off a list as they arrive and stop any alcohol being brought into the venue if appropriate.

For further tips and information on the Party Safe Program go to the QPS website at www.police.qld.gov.au. This includes a ‘Party Safe Checklist’.

Media contacts:

Minister Spence’s office: Ph: 3239 6218

Police Media: Ph. 3015 2444