Have a crime-free Christmas

Pc Trevor Waudby

Hull residents are being warned to be extra cautious about thieves and burglars in the lead up to Christmas.
Overall crime in the city has fallen by 43 per cent since 2005, but opportunist criminals will still be targeting vehicles and homes, particularly at this time of year, say police.
"They have quite a nerve and can be in and out of a car or house very quickly," says PcTrevor Waudby, crime prevention officer at Hull Citysafe.
"But if we all follow simple tips we can avoid a great deal of misery."
Tips include:

• don't leave Christmas presents on display in vehicles and homes
• ensure there are adequate locks on all windows and external doors, and keep them locked even when you are at home
• leave lights on if your house is going to be unoccupied at night
• when going to bed at night, take house and car keys upstairs
• if you're a student going home for Christmas, don't leave personal or academic property in your accommodation, and ensure there are adequate locks on windows and doors
• get a steering lock for your car
• always remove the ignition key when leaving your vehicle, even for a short period such as when at a petrol station
• get cash back from a supermarket, bank or shopping centre during the day, rather than using a cash machine on a dark street
• if you're stuck for Christmas gift ideas, why not buy a burglar alarm, door-chain, or even a shredder (which can help prevent identity fraud by destroying documents).

Hull Citysafe is multi-agency partnership which includes Hull City Council and Humberside Police working together to reduce crime and disorder.
Citysafe's mobile information unit will be offering information and advice at Hessle Road Asda on December 15 and in Queen Victoria Square on December 18.