KEEP YOUR HOME, YOUR VEHICLE, AND YOURSELF SAFE THIS CHRISTMAS
Northamptonshire Police is encouraging members of the public to follow some simple crime prevention methods over the festive period to avoid becoming a victim of crime.
YOUR HOME
• Store all gifts out of sight until Christmas arrives – not under the tree
• Keep entry doors locked at all times, even when you are in your home
• Make sure your house looks occupied – use timer switches on lamps in various rooms and always close the curtains at night
• Be a good neighbour, report anything suspicious
• Keep door and car keys safe at all times; don’t leave them in or near windows and doors
• When recycling empty boxes, fold the card inside out so that you don’t advertise your new gifts
YOUR VEHICLE
• When out shopping, don’t leave goods or presents visible inside your vehicle
• When leaving your vehicle, remove your Sat Nav and its mounting but don’t leave it in the glove box
• Remove marks left on the windscreen where the Sat Nav has been
• Always lock your vehicle – even when only leaving it for a very short time
• Fit tamper-proof number plate screws
YOURSELF
With the Christmas party season about to get into full swing, police are also issuing safe drinking advice to those out and about on the town
Top Ten Tips:
• Always go out with a group of friends – and make sure you stay with them
• Do not walk home alone and always avoid areas which are poorly lit and off the beaten track
• Plan how you are going to get home and store the number of a reputable taxi firm in your phone
• Drink sensibly because excess drinking can leave you vulnerable to unwanted attention and you may become a victim of crime. If you are going to drink, know your limit
• Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return
• Think before you accept a drink from anyone
• Never leave your glass unattended. Use an ‘Alcotop’ to protect your drink bottle from spiking – available from some bars and police stations
• If you are in a group, nominate someone to watch the drinks and take it in turns to do so
• If you do feel ill or light headed tell someone - a friend/bar staff/doorman - and ask for a taxi to take you home
For further crime prevention advice, contact your local Safer Community Team on 03000 111 222 or visit www.northants.police.uk
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