With Christmas now almost upon us, police are reminding people to ensure their personal and home security remains a priority as part of the #SaferChristmas campaign.

There are a few simple steps you can take to reduce the possibility of becoming the victim of crime over the Christmas period.

When you are out shopping:

• Be aware of what is going on around you and ensure your purse or wallet, telephone and anything of value are out of sight.  If you have a handbag make sure it is secure and don’t leave it undone or unattended, especially when in crowded shops or supermarkets.
• Only carry the cards and cash that you need and take care when entering your PIN at ATM machines and shopping outlets – make sure no one is looking over your shoulder.
• Consider where you park your car, especially if it will be dark when you return.  If you can, park your vehicle in a secure car park – look for the ParkMark signs – visit www.parkmark.co.uk for accredited car parks.
• If you have to return to your car to drop off bags before continuing with your shopping, just take a moment to make sure you are not being watched, make sure the shopping is out of view in the boot, the car is locked and it is a good idea to keep the receipts with you – don’t leave them in the shopping bags.
• When driving in built-up areas if you have bags on the car seats it is a good idea to lock the doors.

At Home 

• However tempting it is don’t leave presents under your Christmas tree if they are visible to passers-by. 
• Don’t keep large amounts of cash at home.
• Ensure you lock doors, windows and, if you have one, set your intruder alarm.
• Make your home look as occupied as possible – consider your home security. 
• If your car has “keyless entry” consider purchasing a faraday type bag/signal blocking pouch for your car keys to prevent offenders using relay attack devises.
• Consider your cyber security – we tend to purchase many more items over the internet at Christmas time – always think twice before you “click” for more information visit www.actionfraud.police.uk

After Christmas 

• Many of us will have new expensive items after Christmas.  Don’t advertise what you have by putting packaging outside – dispose of it carefully.  Break down any packaging/boxes fold them and place in your wheelie bin.

If you see anything suspicious please call 101

If you witness a crime in progress call 999

If you have any information about any crime you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 – no personal details are taken, information cannot be traced and you will not go to court.

For more information contact your local Crime Reduction Tactical Adviser – email – sally.picker@lincs.pnn.police.uk or ring 07867936487.