As Christmas gets closer, the shops get busier and shopping becomes more frenzied, Safer Gloucester has some advice for shoppers who may find themselves distracted finding the perfect present.
More shoppers mean car parks will be busy and potentially an easy target for the opportunist thief looking to pick up some easy presents.
Here are some tips to help keep your belongings safe this festive season:
- Don't carry large amounts of cash with you and keep bank, credit cards and PIN numbers safe.
- Keep your bag close to you with the clasp facing inwards. Zip up any pockets and make sure your purse can't be seen.
- Keep your handbag and present bags close to you and make sure you never leave them unattended.
- Avoid carrying too much around with you, the more bags you've got, the more vulnerable you are.
- Take extra care with your credit/debit cards over the Christmas period to reduce the chances of them being stolen or skimmed. Make sure you always keep them in sight whilst your transaction is being completed.
- Be vigilant at cash machines – shield your PIN from view and put cash away safely in your purse, wallet or bag before walking away. Never write your PIN number down.
- Do not leave items on display in your car – this attracts potential thieves.
- If you have to return to your car to unload purchases, make sure that they are locked away out of sight in the boot of your car. Be aware of anyone watching you as you do this.
- Never leave your purse or anything else of value in your car.
Councillor Jennie Dallimore, chairman of Safer Gloucester, said: "As we get closer to Christmas, we start to panic trying to buy those last few presents which are often the most difficult to find.
"It is easy to become distracted but with a little caution we can ensure our purchases all get home safely."
Chief Insp Richard Burge, who chairs the Safer Gloucester crime reduction group, said: "Once the presents arrive home we would also add a further caution."
• Don't leave presents under the tree in view of possible burglars.
• Don't make your home attractive to burglars. Try to make it look occupied at all times by ensuring it is well lit, keep doors and windows locked and ensure all valuables are not visible through windows and doors.
• Don't store expensive gifts in sheds and garages.
• Dispose of wrapping and packaging carefully - don't advertise your new goods!
• Use a UV pen to mark your postcode and door number on new items.
"We want to ensure all our residents and visitors have an enjoyable experience doing their Christmas shopping in Gloucester and stay safe throughout the festive season," he added.
For further crime prevention advice this Christmas check out the website: http://www.safergloucester.co.uk/Advice_and_Information/Christmas_Crime_Prevention.aspx
