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Christmas Crime Warning

10:02am 23rd December 2011

Cornwall is warned to keep its Christmas presents under wraps.

Police are giving advice as we fill our homes with expensive gifts.

It is amid fears opportunist thieves could strike over the holidays.

Bob Bunney, Force Crime Prevention Advisor said, “Burglary in Devon and Cornwall is low compared to other areas of the country. However the opportunity for criminals increases during the Christmas period when people buy lots of valuable presents.

“Effective measures can be put in place by everyone that will help prevent your home becoming a target for criminals. Nearly a third of burglars enter premises through an open door or window so keep them closed when you are not around. I would also recommend checking household insurance policies to make sure any conditions are being complied with such as closing and locking doors and windows when you leave your home empty.”

Police will be delivering advice through leaflets, posters and street events across Cornwall and Devon, plus a small number of crime prevention Christmas cards direct to residents in key areas.

Among the advice:

• Keep windows and doors secure at all times.

• Keep presents and valuables from outside view. Avoid stockpiling large amounts of gifts under the tree too early and keep garages securely locked when storing larger items such as bicycles and power tools.

• Dispose of all boxes and packaging carefully, particularly from expensive presents, and do not leave it on show outside the house.

• Security mark gifts and valuables with your postcode and house number. Register items using the free service: www.immobilise.com which enables police to identify the owner of valuables if they are stolen.

10:02am 23rd December 2011