Protecting your car
Protecting your home
Protecting your property

Christmas is a busy time of year for everyone, including the criminal. We know, however, that a high percentage of crime is opportunistic, and can be prevented by taking some simple precautions. Don’t let the criminal enjoy Christmas at your expense.

Top tips for a crime free Christmas

Your car

Don’t leave presents in full view on the back seat when out shopping. These can be tempting to thieves. Lock them away out of sight in the boot.
Always lock your car and make sure windows are closed, even if you’re away from your vehicle for just a few minutes.
Never leave your keys in the ignition whilst your vehicle is unattended, even for a few minutes. Opportunistic thieves can steal your vehicle. This is also so for vendors or people using vehicles for sales.
Don’t leave any valuables in the glove compartment. Take bank cards, mobile phones , ipads or tablets with you. These items are on a car thieves’ shopping list.
Make sure you park in a well liighted area or in an attended car park.

Your home

Keep doors and windows locked at all times, even when you are in the house.
Keep presents out of sight. Large piles of gift wrapped goodies under the tree that are visible through a door or window are tempting to thieves.
Don’t leave empty boxes on display outside. Discarded packaging advertises all the new goods you have indoors.
Don’t leave car keys and handbags lying around on display.
Make it look like someone is at home when you’re going out for the evening. Leave lights on and close the curtains. If you have an Alarm system, arm It.
If you’re going on holiday over the festive period, ask a friend, relative or neighbour to keep an eye on your house.

Your property

Don’t carry large amounts of cash on you when you go out. Be alert, and make sure your purse or wallet is secure and hidden from view.
Don’t keep your cash and card together. Keep your PIN confidential and don’t write it down.
Check that your home insurance adequately covers you for the value of goods in your home.
You can make it difficult for criminals to operate by not purchasing stolen property. If you are offered a quality product at a bargain price ensure that the source is genuine.

Look out for the elderly wherever possible. Assist them to avoid them being a target of the criminal element.

Joint the fight, Unite against Crime.