Councillors call for alarm 'deterrents' (From Barry And District News)

Councillors call for alarm 'deterrents'

Barry Town councillors have called for panic attack alarms for all their members.

At the last meeting of the council the issue was brought up and the councillors all agreed it would be a positive mood to discourage would-be attackers after late-night engagements.

Plaid Cymru councillor Shirley Hodges said: "It is a good idea to have these alarms.

"I must say however this does not mean that Barry area is a dangerous. As Chief Superintendent Josh Jones said at the meeting it is the fear of crime which we need to combat.

"We live in one of the safest parts of Wales and that has not changed. What I must say however is that the alarms themselves should not make people blas. There is still a need for everyone to be aware of their surroundings. If you are sensible and make sure somebody knows where you are going it will be safer. Everyone should be vigilant when they are on their own. I have not been on my own on council business but I can see the use of the alarms."

Barry Town Council is currently finding out how many alarms are needed. Chief Superintendent Josh Jones said: "We can offer practical advice to the members in relation to minimising the risks. We can also offer advice on personal safety."

Vale of Glamorgan Police has also offered to supply personal panic alarms to the council. Another offer is also being investigated to find a competitive price.

Acting executive officer for the town council Cliff Lewis said: "When the councillors go on site visits on committee business they felt it would be a good idea to have panic attack alarms.

"If they go out on their own they want some sort of safeguard. I made inquiries about the possibility and we are prepared to buy the alarms. "Members of staff already have the devices. We as the Town Council are concerned with the safety of our employees and members of the council."