BOP Police launch Facebook page for Summer Policing

The Bay of Plenty Police District has launched a Facebook page to help share community information and safety advice ahead of the peak summer period.

Called "Bay of Plenty Police – Safer Summers", the page contains everything from information about where to find the 23 Police Stations located across the Bay of Plenty, to updates about liquor bans, road closures and events.

District Communications Manager, Jacky James, says the purpose behind establishing the Facebook page is to reach a new target audience across the Bay of Plenty, but also those from out of town who choose to holiday here.

"Increasingly, people of all ages are choosing to get their news and information in different ways and this is often online – either via a traditional computer or laptop, or through their cellphones.

"This means that as Police we have to be more proactive and creative in the way that we distribute information and engage with our communities.

"In addition, we need to try and engage with potential visitors to the region to make them aware of news and information they may need before they get here.

"One example is around liquor bans. Most centres around New Zealand have some form of liquor ban in place, and these are usually extended over the Christmas period.

"The Bay of Plenty is no exception, however, visitors to the region don't have access to local newspapers or radio or brochures before they get here, so this gives us another way to distribute information."

Mrs James says the Bay of Plenty Police Facebook page does not replace 111 for reporting crime, and members of the public should still dial 111 in an emergency or to report suspicious behaviour.

ends

© Scoop Media