Don't Let Thieves Steal Christmas
15 December 2014, 12:04 | Updated: 5 January 2015, 12:03
Devon And Cornwall Police Say Keep Presents Out Of Sight
During the busy run up to Christmas, Devon and Cornwall Police are advising people to keep their Christmas presents safe.
In December, burglars will look out for wrapped or unwrapped Christmas presents in homes and in cars.
People are advised to protect their Christmas purchases by storing them in a safe, secure and private location that is not visible from outside, so burglars aren’t tempted to steal them.
Kris Calderhead, a crime prevention officer for Devon and Cornwall Police says "if you are doing your Christmas shopping, make sure you're parked in well lit areas, good car parks, keeping everything locked and secure.
"Although Christmas is a busy time for us buying presnts, it also means it's a busy time for thieves looking to steal things".
Here are some top tips to help prevent your home from being burgled:
- Keep gifts out of sight
- Keep all windows and doors closed and locked
- Don’t leave keys in locks especially near letterboxes or cat flaps (where burglars can get their hand through)
- Mark any valuable equipment appropriately (advice on http://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/crime-prevention/) and register it on www.immobilise.com
Further information and advice about protecting your home and car this Christmas can be found at: http://www.devon-cornwall.police.uk/crime-prevention
To report a theft please email 101@devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk or call 101 for non-urgent crime. Call 999 in an emergency.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.