19 December 2011

Police in South Norfolk are urging motorists and homeowners not to make it easy for thieves this Christmas.

The area's seen an increase in crime, from unlocked homes and cars.

As the festive season approaches, unsecure premises and vehicles can provide rich-pickings for opportunist thieves.

Norfolk Constabulary’s provided the following top tips to keep your gifts safe this Christmas:

 

Vehicles

• Make sure that your property is placed out of view
• Clear the windscreen of any marks left by a satellite navigation system or mobile phone holder
• Leave your vehicle in a well lit area at night
• Leave your vehicle in an area covered by CCTV whenever possible
• Ensure you leave your vehicle locked and secure
• Security mark all valuable items with UV pens

 

Homes:

• Close curtains when dark to prevent thieves looking in.
• Use timer switches so it looks like you are at home.
• Remember to secure windows, doors and outbuildings.
• Record serial numbers, take photos of valuable items and mark them with a police approved marking system – it makes them worthless to thieves.
• Always lock your car and never leave belongings on show – even in car parks.
• Shred personal items to prevent possible identity theft.
• Keep wallets, bags and any valuables on you hidden – beware of purse dippers and pick-pockets.
• Don’t advertise new goods – never leave empty packaging by bins.

 

Inspector Rob Wicks, from the Bowthorpe and Costessey Safer Neighbourhood team said: “It only takes opportunist thieves a few seconds to peer into a vehicle or into your living room and be tempted to steal if expensive items are left on display. The easiest way to keep your belongings and gifts secure is to lock your car and house securely.

Think carefully about what’s on display too, as even a coat left on the back seat of a car, or a handbag left in your hallway can be tempting to thieves."