Don’t gift wrap Christmas for thieves

Don’t make it easy for theives by leaving presents in unattended vehicles

Police across the Rochdale borough are issuing a festive warning to make sure people giving gifts don’t hand one to a thief this Christmas.

There are more temptations for criminals at this time of year as people stock up on presents for the festive season.

Thieves also use the cover of darker nights to target insecure homes and vehicles, and police are reminding residents not to make life easy for them.

Superintendent John Graves of Greater Manchester Police’s Rochdale Division, said: “Thieves get busy shopping for Christmas at this time of year, but they tend to do it in people’s homes and cars rather than on the high street.

“Don’t make it easy for them by leaving presents in unattended vehicles, wrapped under the tree before Christmas Day or where they can easily be seen from outside.

“Use lights to make your home look occupied, always set the alarm when you go out or go to bed and remember to keep doors and windows locked so you don’t get any unwelcome visitors.”

Police are urging people to follow the seasonal crime prevention tips below to keep thieves out in the cold… 

• When shopping, always try to keep your wallet, purse or valuables out of sight. Carry your handbag with the strap positioned across your body rather than over your shoulder, and make sure it is closed.
• Don’t leave Christmas gifts or valuables in unattended vehicles when you are out shopping.
• Register all valuable gifts for free at www.immobilise.com – almost any item with a serial number that is recovered by police can be returned to the owner if it is registered on the database.
• Don’t leave presents on display under the tree until Christmas Day – before then keep them well-hidden under lock and key. 
• Make sure you lock all external doors and windows, even when you’re in.
• Make sure you have a burglar alarm installed and remember to activate it when you go out or go to bed.
• Leave a light on or use timer switches to make your house look occupied when you go out.
• After Christmas, do not put empty boxes and packaging outside your home, as this will advertise to burglars what new items are inside. Instead, keep them stored in a safe place until the refuse collectors are due to call.