Staying Safe at Christmas

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Wandsworth police offer seasonal advice to residents

With Christmas fast approaching we would like you to work with your safer neighbourhoods team to help prevent you from being a victim of crime over the festive season.

* Think about what is in your bag before leaving home.

* We advise that you only take out what you really need when shopping.

* Replacing items such as passports and driving licences can be costly and inconvenient.

* Keep purses, wallets and cash secure at the bottom of bags or deep in pockets

* Do not let handbags out of your sight in shops or cafes

* Be aware of others when using a cash point

* Do not leave valuables on display in cars and make sure your car is locked

* Never leave a spare key concealed anywhere near the front door as burglars know all the hiding places

* If going away at Christmas install timers which switch lights or radios on and off automatically

* Have a neighbour or friend pop round to clear your letter-box or doorstep or move rubbish bins back into their usual place

* Where possible, try to keep valuables out of sight from windows including Christmas presents and try to avoid putting them under a tree in plain view

December 14, 2009