DON’T LET THIEVES SPOIL YOUR CHRISTMAS
| John Coppard (Police, PCSO, South Cambridgeshire – Sawston) |
Christmas is a busy time for most of us and it is easy to get carried away with all the excitement. Thieves also get excited around Christmas time because we sometimes forget about securing our vehicles and protecting our property, and that is what the thieves depend on.
While you are out doing your Christmas shopping thieves are out doing theirs, looking into your car to see what you have left on show for them to steal.
Don’t let them get away with your presents and belongings. Please read on…….
- Try not to leave shopping in the car while you go back to buy more. If possible, shop in stages.
- Once you’ve parked up remove all items from display, including small amounts of coins, plastic bags and coats. If you’re not able to take the items with you place them in the boot out of view.
- When using a sat nav make sure you remove the tell-tale ring often left on your windscreen. Potential thieves know that some people leave sat navs in the glovebox.
- Always lock the car and be aware of people hanging around watching your movements.
- Even if you’re only leaving your car for a few moments, such as to pay for fuel, talk to a friend or pick your child up from school – don’t leave your vehicle unlocked.
A thief only needs a few seconds to jump into your car and steal things or drive away.
Present Protection
- When displaying your wrapped presents at home, try not to have them on view to people outside.
- If you are away from you home when darkness falls you may want to consider installing automatic lights, to give the appearance of someone at home.
- It is a good idea to register your property at www.immobilise.com and improve your chances of getting it back if it is lost or stolen. It only takes a couple of minutes and is FREE.
- When putting out the rubbish please do not have packaging on display which advertises your new belongings.
If you see anyone acting suspiciously and have any information regarding these individuals or vehicle’s please call police on 101 or Crime stoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.