Grab a cup of coffee and then get onto the Google-net. Find the Shoalhaven Local Area Command Facebook page known as Eyewatch, put your reading glasses on and peruse the site. Eyewatch will give you the opportunity to participate in active crime prevention activities online in your own home 24-hours-a-day 7-days-a-week, while allowing police to keep their community updated on local crime issues and events. 

Just think, you may be able to do your bit by identifying offenders, identifying stolen property and helping police to crack the case. What an awesome feeling it would be to know that you have made your community a safer place.

On the last Sunday in March there is an event that is growing in popularity – Neighbour Day. It gives everyone the excuse to get out of mowing the lawns and doing the washing and get out and about with the neighbours. I encourage everyone to get on with the neighbours, have a barbecue, a couple of drinks and a pavlova. Talk to them and find out what’s going on in the street. Be vigilant. Make a mental note of strangers or strange happenings in the street. Keep an eye on the neighbours house and they will keep an eye on yours.

Now it’s time for me to go on again about securing your property. I know it’s probably been in every episode of On the Beat since I found out the moon landing was a set up. However I will say it again this week and repeat it every week until I retire. LOCK IT UP. Too many unlocked cars are being broken in to, too many purses and wallets are being left in vehicles, too many front and back doors are being left open or unlocked over night. It’s not rocket surgery. Lock it up, or lose it.

Any hoo, have a great Australia Day. Do not drink too much and please behave yourself. Before you hit the grog too much, just think, “what would I rather have my kids see? Happy Mum or Dad or see one of their parents going to jail because of a silly mistake.” Your choice, so choose wisely.

As always, in case of emergency, call Triple Zero (000), in non-emergencies contact the Police Link on 131 444 or your local Police Station. To provide anonymous information call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. For domestic and family violence information visit  www.police.nsw.gov.au or contact Shoalhaven Domestic Violence Officers on 4421 9666 or 4421 9665 or email shoaldvlo@police.nsw.gov.au.

Don’t forget, cops are tops.