Timely reminders offered to homeowners for safe and happy Christmas

Keep your home secure

· Remember to lock all windows and doors when going out, even if you’re only ‘nipping next door to the neighbours.’

· Consider using timer switches for lights when your house is left unoccupied.

· Don’t leave keys in door locks.

· Keep valuables such as handbags, mobile phones and vehicle keys well away from front and back doors.

· Where possible, lock cars in garages.

· If you have an intruder alarm, remember to use it.

Keep presents hidden away before Christmas

· If possible, keep presents hidden away out of view until Christmas day. Also remember - don’t leave valuables on display under the Christmas tree after the presents have been opened.

· This is an ideal opportunity to check that you know what valuables you normally have in the house (TV’s, games machines, etc). You should check your insurance to make sure you are covered for the value of goods in your home.

· If you 'hide' or store larger items such as bicycles in a garden shed or outbuilding, make sure they are very secure. Use a good quality padlock and hasp.

Keep an eye on your neighbour

· Please keep an eye on your neighbour's home. This can help to prevent burglary and also be useful where the homeowners are elderly, particularly during to cold weather. Alert police of any suspicious incidents.

· Thinking about New Year’s resolutions? Why not consider setting up a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme in your area?

If going away - tell a neighbour

· Please tell someone if you are going away over the holiday period so they can watch your home.

· If you have a burglar alarm then please leave a key with a friend or neighbour and details of how to switch it off.

· Use timer switches for lights when you are away.

· Don't forget to cancel newspapers and milk if you have them delivered. Have your neighbour take post into the house - unopened Christmas cards and letters are a sure sign that a house is empty.

Think security with new presents

· Bicycles are always popular Christmas presents – they’re also popular with thieves. Remember to write down serial numbers of all valuable presents and where possible mark your postcode on the item. If you are unlucky enough to have a present stolen, you have a much better chance of getting them back if you can supply us with the serial number.

· Also remember to note down the serial numbers of new electrical equipment for future reference. Be aware that empty boxes left outside could advertise that you have new goods inside - dispose of packing carefully.

In your car

· Think about where you park. Always make sure that you lock your car and don’t leave the keys in the ignition. Where possible, try to park near to street lighting.

· Don’t leave valuables on display in your vehicle. Even an empty carrier bag or old coat can attract a thief's interest.

· If you need to go back to your car to leave shopping, be aware of who is around and put the shopping in the boot, out of sight. Remember, while you are shopping, so are opportunist thieves.

On foot

· Don’t carry your purse or wallet on view on the top of your handbag or shopping bag. Remember to keep your bag fastened.

· Split your cash, cheque books, and credit cards up and place them into separate pockets. Don't carry separate pieces of paper with PIN numbers written on them.

· Be aware when making a purchase; take your purse out when it's your turn to pay and make sure that you put it away properly before leaving the till.

When you’re out partying

· Don't leave bags over the back of your chair or leave valuables in your coat if you take it off. Wallets, purses and mobile phones are easy to remove – keep them close to your body.

· Don’t leave your drink unattended.

· Buses and taxis are always busy at this time of the year. Please think ahead and plan how you will get home after a night out. If you go out with a group of friends have a Designated Driver who stays sober. You can take it in turn. Don`t Drink and Drive!