Christmas and New Year
Christmas and New Year
Mistletoe and crime
While gathering your shopping this year, take some time to consider those who may be looking to steal a better deal this Christmas.
It's an unfortunate fact that for some Christmas provides a number of opportunities for criminals to benefit from the good will of others. Sussex Police would like to offer a few tips to help you remain vigilant and reduce the chances of being affected by Christmas and New Year crime, whether on the High Street, on a night out or at home:
Drinking and driving don't mix!
It's a disappointing fact that so many people need to be
reminded of the dangers of drink driving. Many believe that it is
only those who are obviously drunk that are a danger on the roads.
This is not true. One person's tolerance to alcohol is very
different to that of another's. Even a small amount of alcohol can
affect driving enough for someone to cause a serious accident,
injury or death to themselves, a loved one or someone they don't
even know.
There is no safe drinking limit other than not drinking at all!
Click on the following links to view Licensing Inspector Viv Johnson's Christmas and alcohol related video blogs:
Responsibilities of licensed premises
What you didn't know about wine
Did you know that driving under the influence of alcohol:
- Slows your reaction times
Reduces concentration
Impairs judgement of speed and distance
Produces overconfidence
This lethal combination seriously increases the likelihood of being
involved in a road accident which leads to death, injury and
misery.
If you are going out for a drink:
- Arrange for someone not to drink and to be a designated
driver
Use a taxi if there's no designated driver
Use public transport
Walk - not only is it safer, it's healthier and cheaper too
Never use a bicycle - riding while under the influence is also extremely dangerous and can lead to prosecution
Protect yourself
- Walk confidently and be aware of your surroundings
Avoid using personal music player or mobile phones
If carrying a bag, wear it with the flap facing you and with the strap over your arm and head
Never leave a club or pub alone and always let people know where you are. Make travel plans beforehand and try to arrange a lift from someone you know.
Have a taxi number on you and try to use pre-booked taxis rather than hailing one down. Always sit in the back, behind the driver.
On public transport, sit close to the driver or guard and also near to CCTV. Avoid empty areas and if you feel unsafe contact a member of staff.
If you have no choice but to walk, never walk along dark shortcuts and always face oncoming traffic.
Protect your car
- Park in a well-lit, busy area and ensure you close your car
windows, lock the doors and use a steering lock.
Never leave valuables in your car. The glove compartment is likely to be the first place thieves will look. The cost of replacing a smashed window can often cost more than the valuables themselves.
Park somewhere that you will feel safe walking back to, remembering that it gets darker much earlier during winter months.
Keep purchases out of sight when in the car or at home - if they can be seen they can be stolen.
Leave your keys in a secure place. Keys can remain visible in a coat pocket or open bag are easily snatched from them.
Protect your home
- Ensure doors and windows are locked at all times and remember
to use your alarm if you have one.
Keys, money and phones are a burglar's dream. Keep all such items well out of sight and reach of doors, windows and letterboxes. Intruders use rods to reach bags and keys and use them to enter your home with ease. In one third of burglaries, the thief didn't have to force entry into the home.
If you like to display your Christmas tree in your window remember to keep the presents away from prying eyes. Just like anyone else, thieves like to window shop before obtaining their goods.
Make your home look occupied by using timer switches on your lights and radios so people think you are in. If you don't have them, ask your neighbours to keep an eye on your home and draw your curtains if you are away.
Dispose of packaging carefully. Empty boxes awaiting collection and bins full of packaging are a perfect advert for burglars.
Be wary of anyone offering you high price goods at a cut down price. Your bargain could be someone else's Christmas present and handling stolen goods could carry a prison sentence.