The Christmas period is not a holiday for thieves. We should all be more security aware at this time. Here is some advice on security of the home, the car and the individual:-
The Home:
Whether you are going away for the holidays, out visiting family and friends, or at a party, make sure that you secure your home. Burglars know that houses will be filled with gifts and other goodies, so they will be active over the Christmas period. Make it look as though someone is in. The only person you want coming down your chimney at Christmas is Santa Claus. Opportunist thieves may be tempted if they can see a pile of presents under a tree; so don't leave those carefully wrapped gifts on view to passers-by, and always ensure doors and windows are shut and secure when leaving your house, even if popping out for a few minutes. If you have a house alarm - use it! Remember that the average burglary takes only five minutes to carry out from start to finish.
The Car:
Don't leave bags, parcels or any other signs of shopping, such as wrapping paper, on view in your car. Try to complete your shopping in one go, so that presents do not have to be left in the car; but if this is not possible lock them in the boot or at least hide them from view. A bag of Christmas gifts on view will delight the thief. Thieves deliberately target car parks during the Christmas period and the weeks before; just looking for people to place gifts in their vehicles before returning to do more shopping. When you leave the car take care where you park it. The more people who can see your car the better. A thief is generally shy and does not like to be seen at work. A few seconds making sure that all windows are closed and doors locked is time well spent; and why not treat yourself to an early Christmas present of a car alarm, or an immobiliser, for added security.
The Individual:
Unfortunately, Christmas brings out the pickpockets and bag-snatchers. With the approach of Christmas and the shopping areas becoming even more crowded than usual, the likelihood of handbags being snatched and pockets being picked, increases. Always keep purses and wallets secure and out of sight. Make sure that your handbag is closed and keep good hold of it. Do not leave handbags or purses on the top of shopping baskets when you are in a busy shopping area, even momentarily. Be especially careful too when boarding a bus at a crowded bus stop. When everyone shoves forward to board the bus it is the favourite time for the pick-pocket, who often works with an accomplice whose job it is to slow the queue down. If you have the opportunity to go shopping with a friend, not only is it more fun but it can also be safer.
Page last updated/reviewed 6th January 2010 |
