Burglars wouldn’t be on your Christmas present list so don’t let them help themselves to your gifts.
The joy of receiving the latest hi-tech gadget you’ve been dreaming of all year could be short-lived if you don’t take some basic crime prevention measures.
All too often the ‘hot property’ takes pride of place in the home and the boxes are discarded outside for recycling. It’s tantamount to putting a sign on your door saying:
'look what I got for Christmas, come and burgle me'
Prevention Manager Inspector Scott Fraser said: “It’s easily with all the excitement and distraction of Christmas to take your eye off the ball and not consider the simple things that will help keep you and your home safe. Keeping wrapped gifts hidden from view before Christmas taking the boxes to the recycling depot after Christmas could be could all it takes to prevent you from having an intruder in your home."
Other measures you can take include:
- Make sure your house, vehicles, sheds and garages are secured at all times
- Keep valuables and wrapped presents out of view.
- Make the house look lived in - put lights on automatic timers, have someone open and close curtains and take the post in
- Let neighbours know if you are going away
- Look out for each other - if neighbours are away keep an eye on their home
- Make a list of property and record serial numbers
- Mark your property so it can be easily identified if recovered
- Take photos of unique items such as jewellery and ornaments
- Keep important documents and valuation certificates in a safe place. If possible store copies with a trusted friend or relative.
- Report suspicious activity to police
“We want everyone to have a safe and peaceful holiday so just take a little time out to protect what is precious and rightfully yours and spend the rest of the time enjoying the festivities."
