FESTIVE SEASON SAFETY TIPS FROM THE POLICE:

The opportunities for criminals increase during the festive season,
so don't forget:

• If you don’t return home until after dark, consider a timer switch to switch on the lights – or get a friend to do it for you.
  
  
• Don’t leave presents on view either at home or in your car, you’d be simply tempting fate.
  
  
• Don’t leave packaging in your rubbish bin – it advertises that you have new things to steal.
  
  
• While out shopping, think about where you carry your wallet, purse or handbag. Always keep them safe. Don’t tempt a pickpocket or bag snatcher.
  
  
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash if you can help it. Be wary at cash machines.
  
  
• If you’re going away, tell trusted neighbours. Ask them to remove post, and check security while you’re away. Asking them to leave some of their rubbish in your bin can also help fool burglars. Remember to cancel newspapers and milk. Phone the local police control room (020 8672 9922) to tell them when you’ll be away - they’ll ask patrols to keep an eye on your house.
  
  
• Carol singers come in all shapes and sizes. Some are bona fide collectors for charity, others are collecting for themselves. Don’t be intimidated into giving them money, but if you do, close the door behind you while you go to get it.
  
  
• Beware of bogus callers –DON’T LET THEM IN! Representatives of gas, electricity etc WILL have photo ID cards, and won’t mind you checking up on them. If you’re unsure or suspicious, keep them out and call the police.
  
  
• Be a good neighbour and look out for the elderly, as they are particularly vulnerable to bogus callers.
  
  
• Property-mark all your belongings and take a note of any serial numbers. Photograph any items you cannot mark.