Holiday hints to deter thieves

It’s almost holiday time, and Richmond Area Command police Crime Prevention Officer Michael Hogan has issued these hints to avoid theft.

Don’t hide spare keys in places around the house; burglars know hiding places also.

Going on holidays:

• Cancel regular deliveries
• Advise a neighbour, and request they clear your mailbox
• Notify someone of your plans – date of departure, date of return in particular, any contact numbers to alert you or family of any problems.

When approaching or leaving your vehicle, have a quick glance around to see if anyone is taking unwarranted interest in your movements.

Lock your car and put the immobiliser on. Make this a habit. Even if only putting the shopping in the boot, unloading the car at home, or filling up your car with petrol at the garage – LOCK IT.

Phone calls: if you are not sure who the caller is, DO NOT give any personal information over the phone, even if the caller claims to be from a legitimate organisation.

If you have a reason to be suspicious of someone, note details such as height and build; what colour clothes are they wearing; what does their hair look like; do they have facial hair; are they clean or untidy; and remember to make a note of the time and direction they were heading.

Frustrate thieves: brand and or record everything of value; jewellery, cameras can be photographed. Place a reference object, like a ball-point pen, alongside the valuable to assist in measuring the size. For larger items, engrave them with an identifiable number.

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