POLICE are urging partygoers to exercise increased caution on December 31 as crowds flock to New Year’s Eve events.
Senior Sergeant Steve Graham said the large number of people at pubs, clubs and house parties meant police would be called out to more incidents on New Year’s Eve than on a usual night.
“You get more disturbances at your licensed premises because there’s more people there than usual,” Senior Sergeant Graham said.
He added that police would be out and about in increased numbers to monitor the crowds.
“We’ll be doing walk-throughs of licensed premises to have a look at the intoxication levels and to remind people that police are around,” he said.
Senior Sergeant Graham said the main thing people should remember is to control their alcohol intake.
“Don’t pre-load at home before you go out,” he said.
“Watch your intoxication levels at the licensed premises, and try to avoid doing shots.
“Make sure you keep an eye on your drinks and don’t let other people give you drinks.”
Sergeant Lauren Turgeon added that police would also be patrolling the roads on the night.
“Police will be conducting proactive [random breath tests] on New Year’s Eve,” Sergeant Turgeon said.
“Arrange an Uber or a lift when you go out partying.”
Senior Sergeant Graham said more people at licensed venues meant people needed to respect their fellow partygoers.
“The nightclubs and pubs are going to be crowded, so people tend to bump into you more than they normally do,” he said.
“Just remember that it is New Year’s Eve, and be tolerant of the people around you.”
He cautioned party hosts to be aware of their noise levels, due to the increased number of noise complaints received by police on New Year’s Eve.
Sergeant Turgeon recommended those hosting a large party to register with Party Safe, a Queensland police online initiative.
Party hosts can register their parties and access more police safety advice at police.qld.gov.au/programs/cscp/personalSafety/youth/partySafe.