BY ISABEL EVERETT
Police commenced operation, "Summer Safe" on Tuesday across the Hunter, which will see officers cracking down on alcohol related violence, and anti-social behavior at licensed venues, public spaces and entertainment precincts.
The operation will run from now until the end of summer in February 2021.
Police will also be monitoring adherence to public health orders, social distancing and ensuring COVID-19 Safety Plans are being enacted.
Northern Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Max Mitchell APM, is urging all New South Wales residents who live in regional NSW or who are
planning to travel to the regions to expect a
regional visit with a difference.
“We are all aware of the additional risks that the COVID-19 pandemic poses,
with tens of thousands of people moving about the state and the additional risk
of community transmission ever present."
“We must not forget that the virus doesn’t follow borders restrictions and
hotspot declaration and – when families take a holiday closer to home this year
– we have to keep our regional citizens in mind."
“Officers from all Northern Region police districts will be conducting
regular and high-visibility patrols and checks of major tourist destinations,
to ensure social distancing and COVID-19 Safety Plans are being enacted.
The Commissioner said police would also be working closely with councils and NSW Surf Lifesaving to ensure social distancing was being observed at beaches and ocean baths.
Road safety will also be a focus of Operation Summer Safe, with Traffic and
Highway Patrol officers to assist police districts with targeting speeding,
drink and drug driving, driving while fatigued, mobile phone and other traffic
offences.
“Double demerits forms part of the first phase of Operation Summer Safe,
with the October long weekend only a few days away,” Assistant Commissioner
Mitchell said.
“Always drive to the conditions and never get behind the wheel tired; your beachside or vineyard holiday will still be there, even if you are a few hours late.”
