Revellers urged to ensure they get home safe over the festive period

Ahead of the festive period, revellers are being advised to take care when using taxis and private hire vehicles on their Christmas nights out.

Renfrewshire Council and Police Scotland have teamed up to give passengers some important safety tips as the festivities get set to begin.

Party-goers should ensure they plan how to get home from their night out in advance and, where possible, pre-book their taxi home.

They should also only use licensed taxis or private hire vehicles to make any journeys and never be tempted to accept the offer of a lift from a passing car.

Councillor John MacNaughtan, Convener of Renfrewshire Council's Regulatory Functions Board, said: "We have lots of fantastic venues for an evening out in Renfrewshire and we want to ensure that everyone has a great time, but remains safe while doing so.

“All licensed taxi companies or private hire vehicles will have Renfrewshire Council plates which display the licence details, and the driver's badge should be displayed within the vehicle.

“If this is not the case, then don’t accept the lift and call your taxi company to confirm that it is the correct vehicle.”

Police Scotland will have additional patrols in Renfrewshire across the festive period to ensure that revellers are safe at one of the busiest times of the year.

Chief Inspector Simon Wright, Area Commander for Paisley, said: “The festive period is an exceptionally busy time of year, with large numbers of people out enjoying themselves across Renfrewshire.

“My message would be to have a fantastic, but safe time while out across Renfrewshire. Always plan ahead and make arrangements to ensure you can get home, preferably in the company of friends.

“Never get into a private hire, you have not phoned for and booked in advance and always ensure that the driver is displaying their drivers badge. If you are in any doubt, seek alternative transport.”

Should you enter a vehicle which you believe to be a taxi or private hire vehicle and become aware it is not, or if you feel unsafe in any way you should contact Police Scotland using 101 or 999 in an emergency.

For more information on taxis in Renfrewshire, visit: www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/taxisandprivatehires

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