We want everyone to have a fun and festive Christmas, and we want you all to be able to celebrate safely.
We’ve put together some key safety messaging in the run up to the festive period to make sure that you, your family and friends and your belongings are safe.
Would-be thieves use the goodwill of the Christmas season to target people and their belongings. Follow this advice to deter them:
Keep bags and belongings close by when out and about and stay aware of your surroundings.
Make sure valuables are out of sight and consider holding bags with the fastening inwards.
Don’t leave gifts or valuables on display inside vehicles, even if you’re just stepping away for a brief moment – it’s surprising just how quickly thieves can target vehicles.
Always lock your vehicle when you’re not using it.
If you give or receive a valuable gift this year, make sure they’re out of view of windows and doors.
Dispose of boxes at recycling centres rather than in the weekly bin collections, as thieves could use this as a reason to target your home.
If you’re away over the festive seasons, take some time to make sure doors and windows are locked and consider using timers to switch on lights in the evening.
If you are a victim of crime, you can report it online: https://www.dc.police.uk/contact/
λ In an emergency, if life is in danger or a crime is in progress, always call 999.