Get Ready for Winter Keep Yourself Safe from Crime Over the Festive Period

Keep Your Car Safe When you leave your car, lock your car Make sure your windows are closed Don’t leave any valuables on show Wipe off any marks on your windscreen left by your Satnav Invest in a wheel-lock and car alarm Never leave your car unattended while you wait for the ice to defrost Take your mobile phone and bag with you and keep them on you Out Shopping Cover your PIN at cash machines Keep money/valuables in an inside pocket. Don’t walk home alone at night. Keep with friends. Stick to busy, well lit areas. If you think you are being followed, cross the road and go to a busy place where you can ask for help. Winter can be a busy time for everyone. Unfortunately, it is during the hustle and bustle that opportunistic thieves often strike. But there are some simple steps you can take to reduce risks this winter… Simple steps

Beware of Bogus Callers If you get a knock at the door: Stop and think – are you expecting visitors? Ensure the back door and any other doors leading outside are locked before answering Open the door with a chain/door bar in place (these act as a barrier when talking to unexpected callers) or talk through a window if you can. Always ask for ID (genuine callers will always have identification) If you are still uncertain, phone the organisation and confirm the person is who they say they are. Keep Your Home Safe If you are going away this Christmas, make sure your property is secure. It is worth investing in a timer switch for your lights, so it looks as if someone is in. Keep presents hidden from view and get rid of any boxes which show what you have purchased – perhaps recycle them. Tear up receipts and bills before throwing them away, this will stop important information being stolen. Lock your doors and windows – even if you are only in the garden.

Spread the word Remember: Don’t be a victim of crime Tell your family, friends and neighbours how they can keep safe this winter For further information and top tips visit: