Police warn public – “don’t let thieves steal your Christmas”

Cumbria Police launch their annual campaign today to help people keep their property safe and reduce burglary and theft in the lead up to Christmas.

The “Don’t Let Thieves Steal Your Christmas” campaign urges people to be vigilant against burglary as the nights grow darker and expensive gifts are being bought for Christmas.

The warning comes as the national Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) launch their ‘In Focus – Burglary and Handling Stolen Goods Week’. This week focuses on action against burglary and stolen goods as, historically, November is a peak month for burglaries.

In the last three years there has been an increase in the number of burglaries in Cumbria during the months November and December (5^th November – 31^st December):

Year	Number of burglaries
2010	310
2011	331
2012	385

Chief Superintendent Steve Johnson explains:

“Although Cumbria has a very low crime rate compared to other areas of the country, we do still experience burglaries – particularly around this time of year.

“We hope that this campaign will encourage people to take easy steps to ensure they have a wonderful festive time, that isn’t ruined by thieves.

“As well as warning people against burglary we are also keen that people report any suspicious products being sold that may have been stolen. Cut-price goods can be tempting but if that item is stolen it is a criminal offence to buy it.

“We want to lower the numbers of burglaries in November and December, but we need everyone’s help to do this. By following some simple crime prevention advice people can significantly reduce the risk of burglary.

“If anyone has any concerns around burglary, or has any suspicions around stolen property, I would encourage them to call Cumbria Police on 101.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes said:

“It is pleasing that thankfully burglary is low in Cumbria but that is not a reason to be complacent.  The Constabulary have some key safety messages for us all to follow.”

There are precautions that you can take to ensure that your Christmas isn’t blighted by criminals:

·         Never leave your new presents in sight of a doorway or window - this is an open advertisement to potential burglars

·         Lock your doors and windows of your home and vehicles

·         Don’t put empty boxes or packaging outside your home to advertise what new gadgets or gifts you’ve received

·         Use timer switches for lights and radios when you leave your home to celebrate over Christmas and New Year

·         Contact police to help security mark all your new electrical and valuable gifts

·         Take advantage of the free bike marking events to prevent thieves taking your bicycles

·         If you have a house alarm, ensure it works and use it

·         Secure outhouses and sheds

·         If you are going away over Christmas or New Year, ask someone you trust to keep an eye on your home

·         Look after your neighbours and report ANY suspicious activity, people or vehicles to police immediately on 101.

For more information about protecting your property and belongings, visit http://www.cumbria.police.uk/news/campaigns/dont-let-thieves-steal-your-christmas