Crime reduction 

Christmas crime menu

Starter

Your car and all its trimmings

Car thief's classic: car left unlocked, with windows open - Always lock doors and windows and use a steering lock.

Starters orders: keys left in ignition - Never leave keys in the ignition and the car unattended.

Santa’s surprise: presents on passenger seats - Keep presents out of sight. If they can be seen, they can be stolen.

Hot wired saloon: parked in dark car park - Leave your vehicle in a well-lit location or your car could make someone else's Christmas.

Chef’s treasure chest: served with valuables - Thieves look in glove compartments first for mobile phones and other valuables – take them with you.

Main Course

Your house on a plate

House hotpot: doors and windows insecure - Make sure all windows and doors are locked.

Santa’s parcels: presents displayed under the Christmas tree - Keep presents out of sight.

Tasty takeaways: car keys and handbags left in handy places - Hall tables are the first places thieves look for valuables.

Holiday haven for thieves: it’s obvious no-one’s home - Going on holiday? Leave lights and a radio on timer switches; ask a neighbour to go in and collect mail.

Open sesame: opening your door to strangers - Use a door chain and viewer, only open the door to visitors when you are happy with their identity.

Dessert

Your portable property

Pedal power: bicycles not secure and marked - Lock bikes and get them marked with your postcode and house number.

Shed surprise: valuable tools for the discerning thief - Secure your shed with a bolt and padlock and consider fitting an alarm.

Devil’s drink: don’t leave your drink unattended - Leave your drink alone and it could get spiked.

Coffee and mints

Surprisingly sour: cheap goods passed on could be stolen - If you are offered a quality product for a bargain, ensure the source is genuine.