Poor planning can lead to unwanted gatecrashers and it is the party hosts’ responsibility to keep their guests’ safe.

NSW Police Force has issued a number of tips in time for the Christmas period to help keep people safe.

Lake Macquarie crime prevention officer Sharm Whitehead said hosts were encouraged to keep parties maintained within the dwelling or backyard.

Senior constable Whitehead said street parties and holding parties in front yards were discouraged.

“You want to be able to control your entry and exit points.

“Don’t allow people to wander around the street.”

People are being encouraged to tell police about parties a week before the event.

It helps police to work with the community and identify problems before they happen.

Senior constable Whitehead also warned people not to invite people via SMS or the internet, as invitations could be passed on easily without the host’s knowledge.

“It’s the host’s responsibility to ensure the safety of their guests.

“We also encourage people to mindful of how their guests’ behaviour impacts on people around them.”

Under the Protection of the Environment Operation Act police can issue a noise abatement direction if the noise is deemed to be offensive.

A person must not allow amplified sound, that can be heard within a habitable room, in any other resid-ential premises before 8am and after midnight on Fridays, Saturdays or the day before a public holiday, or before 8am and after 10pm on any other day.

Hosts are also being reminded that it is illegal to supply alcohol to a minor, and fines can reach up to $5500.

For more information about planning a safe party go to www.nswpolice.gov.au/safepartypac k or register your party online at www.mynite.com