Mr Fraser said one of the unfortunate things about the fine weather over the summer is that people often spend more time outside, often consuming greater amounts of alcohol and families can often feel like they are living on top of one another.
"Another challenge is that at this time of year people are trying to balance bills coming in from Christmas and there is the expense of kids returning to school which all adds to the pressure.
"Combining illegally held firearms, illicit drugs and a volatile domestic environment is like pouring fuel on a fire and we urge anyone who finds themselves in stressful home environments not to turn to drugs, drink or guns for a solution but to seek help.
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There are a number of agencies available to assist people at risk of domestic violence and some advice Police ask the public to consider includes;
1.Watch your spending, over-spending often leads to pressure when the bills mount up
2.Take time out, sometimes with all the family in each others hair it's necessary to take a breather
3.Set a budget and stick to it- a key factor in making it through the summer
4.Ease up on the alcohol, alcohol is a major contributing factor to violence, pace yourself- don't blow your cool and look like a fool
5.Don't spend all your time on top of one another- plan activities that give you breathing space and identify areas or issues likely to cause pressure
6.Seek advice- various agencies offer assistance on relationships, budgeting and managing stress, take advantage of them
7.Any person being subject to, or living in fear of domestic violence should contact the police. Alternatively they can also call Women's Refuge: (07) 8551569 or 0800 REFUGE (733 843) or the Are You OK Information Line: 0800 456 450. More information can be found at websites such as; www.areyouok.org.nz, www.familyservices.govt.nz/directory/searchprovidepublic.htm, www.justice.govt.nz/courts/family-court/publications/pamphlets/domestic-violence-information-on-protection-orders
