feature: Cracking Christmas Crime
13 December 2007
Christmas is a holiday period where people can relax and take a few days off work, whatever their faith or background. But it’s also a time when burglars, pickpockets and bag snatchers can have a field day.
So beware and take care and you’ll have a great Christmas and New Year, is the message from Haringey Council and local police.
“By following a few simple rules you can cut down your chances of being a victim of crime at Christmas,” says Cllr Nilgun Canver, Haringey’s cabinet member for enforcement and safer communities.
When you’re out shopping, make sure you stay alert, keep your purse or wallet close to your body and don’t carry too much cash.
Park in a well- lit area, lock all doors and windows and do not leave presents in view.
Don’t make it easy for someone to steal from your home either. Keep presents out of sight, and if you ‘hide’ or store larger items such as bicycles in the shed, make sure they are very secure.
Take the frame numbers of new cycles and the serial numbers of electrical equipment for future reference. Remember, empty boxes left outside advertise that you have new goods inside.
Be careful to check the identity of anyone delivering goods ordered online. They usually have uniforms and liveried vehicles and should not need to come into your home. If you live alone and are expecting deliveries, invest if a door chain and use it!
Keep your home looking occupied with a timer to turn on lights and the radio. Be extra careful about locking doors and windows. Cancel papers and milk if you are going away and ask a trusted neighbour to push any mail through your letterbox.
“Don’t make it easy for someone to steal from you or your home. That way you can help us to fight crime and build a safer community.” Shaun De Souza Brady, Chief Inspector, Haringey Police
Getting home safely
Keep your wits about you after work parties and use a registered taxi to come home, not a mini cab cruising the streets. Book in advance if possible.
Anywhere in London you can ensure you get a licensed cab by texting HOME to 60835 to get the numbers of one taxi and two local, licensed minicab companies.
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