The worst house party came to Greater Manchester last week as local college students joined forces with the Safe4Summer partnership* to illustrate different facets of antisocial behaviour, including legal highs, loud music and deliberate fires.
The performing arts students from Pendleton Sixth Form College held a mock house ‘party’ gone wrong to highlight the consequences of antisocial behaviour.
The ‘party’ was filmed and will now be used alongside new artwork to educate the public about antisocial behaviour and the effects it can have on other people.
Assistant Chief Constable Garry Shewan said: “It’s very easy for behaviour to cross the line from social to antisocial and it is important that we consider the impact this behaviour can have on others. By combining all of the forms of antisocial behaviour in one room we are able to visually illustrate the consequences they can have.
“Taking ‘legal highs’ and playing loud music may seem innocent enough but think about your next door neighbour, who wakes up early to take her children to school. Similarly, lighting a fire to keep warm might seem like a good idea at the time, but it only takes a matter of minutes to lose control and put lives at risk. It is important for people to think about the consequences of their actions taking legal highs. We urge people to stay safe and think about the consequences of their actions – not only will it cause distress to others, you could end up with a criminal record.
“We know from the success of our previous Safe4Summer campaigns that younger people are taking notice of the messages we are sending out which is why we are extending the campaign to an older audience. The message is simple – have a fun time, without doing time.”
Greater Manchester Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “Safe4Summer is not about dampening high spirits, it’s about reminding young people to think twice before doing something that could endanger themselves or cause distress to others.”
Nigel Hudson, authority tactical advisor, said: “This year Local Authorities are supporting the Safe 4 Summer campaign. We want to make 2015 an enjoyable summer for everyone. Whether people are having parties at home or enjoying public space or activities with friends please consider that wherever you are, you as individuals are responsible for your actions and any consequences of your behaviour.”
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service’s Head of Prevention, Area Manager Wayne Shields, said: “Everyone likes a drink and a BBQ during the summertime, but if you don’t stay in control things can quickly get out of hand.
“You must ensure your BBQ is positioned away from things which might catch fire like fences, sheds, plants or wheelie bins.
“Never use petrol to light a BBQ and never put BBQ lighter fluid on a BBQ which is already lit – you could risk serious burns.
“When you’ve finished with your BBQ allow it to complete cool down before you dispose of any coals – never put it away in a shed still warm or put hot coals in a wheelie bin, they will catch alight.
“If you’re using disposable BBQs in parks or beauty spots take extra care not to set fire to the ground or plants around you – you could start a fire which could kill rare animals and destroy habitats.”
Residents can help improve their community and take back control by reporting antisocial behaviour. Report ASB confidentially to police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.
