‘Don’t gift wrap Christmas for burglars,’ say officers

Don’t leave presents wrapped up under the tree and visible from your windows, warm police

Greater Manchester Police is warning householders that burglars see Christmas as a time for taking rather than giving and that they should take extra care not to fall victim to this distressing crime.

Officers say that thieves get extra busy at this time of year as they know that homes are full of new valuables that people have bought as presents for family and friends. The dark evenings also help burglars target what they think may be unoccupied properties.

Residents can protect their homes by using timer switches to operate lights at dusk and keeping all valuables out of sight. They should also make sure that they shut and lock all doors and windows and set their alarm when they go out.

Detective Superintendent Mark Bell said: “Burglars get busy shopping for Christmas at this time of year but they tend to do this in people’s homes rather than the High Street.

“Don’t make it easy for them by leaving your presents wrapped up under the tree and visible from your windows. Simply using lights to make your home look occupied and remembering to keep doors and windows secure can help ensure you do not get any unwelcome visitors at this time of year.

“Burglary can be an upsetting experience at any time of year but it is particularly painful at Christmas. Following this simple advice could help you have a safe and peaceful Christmas and keep burglars where they belong, out in the cold.”