Warwickshire Police

Warwickshire Police would like to offer the below crime prevention advice to helpreduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime this Christmas.

When Christmas Shopping

• Park in well lit public places, avoiding isolated or dimly lit areas.
• Do not leave items on display in your car, regardless of monetary value.
• If you have to return to your car to unload purchases make sure that they are locked out of sight and be aware of anyone watching you as you do this.
• Avoid carrying too much around with you, the more bags you’ve got the more vulnerable you are.
• Keep your purse or wallet somewhere close to your body where it is secure and you can feel it.
• If you carry your purse in a handbag make sure that the zip or clasp is kept closed and out of the way of pick pockets. Ensure zip openingsare facing to the front, rather than to the back
• Take extra care with your credit cards over the Christmas period to reduce the chances of them being stolen or skimmed. Make sure you always keep them in sight whilst your transaction is completed.
• Be vigilant at cash machines. If you notice anything out of place, any unusual devices attached to the machine or anyone hanging around nearby, report it. Keep your PIN safe and put cash away safely before walking away. Never write your PIN number down.

If you feel your number has been compromised in any way, use the service available at cashpoints to change it.

At Home

• Keep presents out of sight until last thing on Christmas Eve. If presents are left on display, ensure they can not be seen via external doors and windows, they may attract the attention of people passing by.
• Try not to hide or store Christmas presents outside in the shed or garage.
• Keep receipts and instruction manuals separate so that should the worst happen, you have evidence of what was taken.
• Dispose of packaging carefully. Empty boxes left outside will indicate that these goods are available inside.
• When out of the house ensure all windows and doors are locked. At night use a light on or set on a timer switch to give the impression that someone is at home. Also leave a radio playing or a television on.

Out and About

• Organise transport home before you leave or stay with a friend, to avoid confrontational situations.
• Make sure someone knows where you’re going and what time you will be back.
• When you walk try to appear confident and pay attention to what is going on around you. Keep to well lit routes and avoid dark areas. Do not use iPods or mobile phones.
• If you have to telephone for a taxi, always try and use a firm you know and have the number programmed into your mobile phone. Always sit in the back, preferably behind the driver.

Issued by
Warwickshire County Council and Warwickshire Police