Cumbria Constabulary is committed to tackling festive crime

Cumbria Constabulary is reminding the local community to keep their home and belongings safe this Christmas.

It’s just over two weeks until Christmas Day and the majority of people will have decorated their tree, wrapped some presents, and will be thinking about exchanging gifts.

Security may not be at the forefront of people’s minds, therefore Cumbria Constabulary is issuing crime prevention advice to remind people not to let thieves steal their Christmas.

Superintendent Andy Towler said, “We will be strengthening police patrols in our neighbourhoods to reassure residents and deter thieves. There will be local initiatives to provide communities with all the information they need to keep themselves and their property secure this Christmas.

“Thieves can target houses with Christmas presents on view so we would recommend everyone to think about where to keep their presents. More advice about home security is available on our website at www.cumbria.police.uk/securehome.

“We are committed to tackling festive crime and ensuring that thieves don’t steal people’s Christmas.”

In order to help, Cumbria Constabulary will be issuing a version of the “12 Days of Christmas” in an online booklet which raises awareness to some key issues. This will be available on our website, Twitter and Facebook account from Monday 15 December.

“Superintendent Towler added, “The “12 Days of Christmas” focuses on twelve ways to help you stay safe this Christmas and includes helpful reminders to help people to be safe and secure over the festive period.

“Our aim is to try and ensure that everyone has a happy and safe Christmas.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes said, “We would all do well to take notice of the advice that the Police will be providing over the next couple of weeks, to ensure that we keep our possessions safe.  Please take note of the guidance, and avoid becoming a victim of crime this Christmas.”

Please let us know as soon as possible if you see anyone behaving suspiciously in your neighbourhood.  Many criminals are apprehended due to information from members of the public. Simply telephone 101, or if a crime is in progress, 999.  If you have information regarding crime you can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

If you would like to speak to someone in person, you can do so at the various police desks held across the county. Police officers and PCSOs are on hand to offer information, advice, answer questions, and speak to you about any concerns. To find out where your next police desk is, visit www.cumbria.police.uk/policedesks. If you are unable to attend one of these, please ring Cumbria Constabulary on 101 and ask to speak to a Crime Prevention Officer.

More crime prevention advice is also available at http://www.cumbria.police.uk/advice-and-information/crime-prevention and includes top tips on security for sheds, fuel storage, and vehicles.