TOP TIPS: STAYING SAFE AT THE MANCHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKETS
With the busy winter period now upon us that means the Christmas Markets are back in Manchester City Centre: so it’s about to get even busier. The 300 or so stalls span from Albert Square all the way to Cathedral Gardens attracting thousands of visitors to this already busy City. Below are a few tips and trick to keep you, your family and friends safe during your visit to the Manchester Christmas Markets 2018.
Losing People
Let’s start with the most common problem in the bustling Christmas Markets: it is very easy to lose a member of your party at any time. This could be due to wandering off, lingering at a stall or just getting caught up in the crowd. It is very important that you never lose eye contact with anyone in your party, especially children. The bright lights and exciting stalls are a magnet for children wanting to explore but this can soon turn sour when you cannot locate your child. Hold hands or link arms with anyone you deem to be slightly more vulnerable whilst browsing the stalls. The busy markets can be very intimidating for the elderly so try to visit them during the weekdays when they are quieter. The same with children, as it is very unlikely to have a stress-free visit during weekend peak times.
If you are unfortunate enough to lose a member of your party, keep your mobile devices in mind to communicate and relocate each other. Even then its important to arrange a muster point in case of an emergency such as a specific stall or landmark you all can make your way back to.
Getting Lost
The Markets attract people from far and wide, so it is likely there are a few people around who don’t know Manchester City Centre that well. With the Christmas Markets snaking through the streets it’s easy to lose your place and get lost with your heads in and out of stalls. Be it visiting by yourself or in a large party it is important to arrange beforehand a reference point for you to gather your bearings and continue enjoying the markets. For example, use the Manchester Town Hall or Market Street. If you able locate these key central locations it’s easy to make your way back to the markets. Also, asking strangers can help you locate these destinations as they are commonly known by Mancunians.
Theft
The Manchester Christmas Markets attracts thousands of people each day, the majority of them all with good intentions. But there are always predators out there that will happily separate you from your wallet, purse or bag at any opportunity. It is very important to always know where your belongings are at all times. Never lay your bag down whilst you make a purchase. A good idea is to actually wear it on your front (you see this A LOT in Barcelona, a city known for its pickpockets). Sitting down to enjoy a drink or some food? Put your bag on your lap or put your leg through the handles and leave it in sight on the floor. Don’t make yourself a target. Thieves will get bored and move to an easier target. If you ever do suspect someone of a theft, or acting suspiciously, report them to the nearest security officer or the police. Do not confront them! It’s not worth getting hurt over.
Terrorism
All of the 2018 Manchester Christmas Markets stalls are surrounded with anti-vehicle barriers and Greater Manchester Police are in attendance at all times, as well as armed police in key areas at busy times. Security guards are situated at every major entrance and conduct regular bag checks to deter a repeat of recent terrorist activities.
Conclusion
The Manchester Christmas Markets are a very safe place and these are just a few tips to make sure that you and your belongings enjoy all the stalls to the fullest and make it home safely afterwards ready for next year. If you have any questions regarding safety at the Manchester Christmas Markets don’t hesitate to email; info@deltasecuritysolutions.co.uk with the subject MCR CHRISTMAS MARKETS.