PC Tony Stamp from The Bill has some seasonal advice to help make yours a Happy Christmas

Hall decking is commendable but not the only place you should leave a light on this year. Light up "lived-in"rooms and consider leaving a radio on.

Alarms-a-ringing is not the ideal image of the season but they are very effective. Although it is tempting not to set an alarm at night if you have young children, five per cent of break-ins occur when people are in.

Phones-a-glowing has resulted in a crime phenomenon. To minimize the chances of your mobile being taken plan your travel so that you do not need to ring somebody at transport termini late at night.

Parties-a-swinging can leave you vulnerable afterwards. Try to travel at night, accompanied if you can. If not sit near the bus driver if travelling on a bus and if you are taking a cab you are safer in the back if alone and know where you are going.

Your credit cards should be kept somewhere where they will not fall out. Watch for your cards being skimmed where your card is swiped on an additional device behind the counter which downloads your data onto another card.

Cashpoints can be snatch points at this time of year. Try to avoid using them late at night. If unavoidable, try not to count it: you have more chance of having the money taken from you than the bank accepting you have been shortchanged.

Have the number of your local police station recorded somewhere. A lot of people suffer in silence rather than dial 999. Even if you are not in your usual police area you can be helped by them on the phone and put through if necessary.

Repeat burglary risk is now a reality unless you take effective measures. It could cost you the price of a holiday but a break-in could wipe out the benefit if you haven't invested.

Imminent disqualification from driving is not the best way to celebrate Christmas. Designate a non-drinking driver if you can.

Senior citizens can be tricked by cash-seeking criminals more than ever at this time of year on the pretence of mending a water leak. Look out for them.

Trees are part of the magic of Christmas in our homes. Be aware that if your tree can be seen from the street and the lights are out it can be a sign you are as well. The risk of fire is very small nowadays.

Motor vehicles are at risk from criminals using magnetic rods to "fish" car keys kept near the front door on a hall table or in a handbag or coat pocket, through the letterbox. Keep car keys upstairs for maximum security.

Avoid leaving your drinks unattended at parties or clubs where stronger drinks can be added or, even worse, "date rape" drugs. Drinks in bottles can be carried around with you easier.

Stalking of car parks is a hazard at this time of year. Thieves wait for someone to drop off one load of shopping before going back for more so they can steal from your car.

If you take just one of these seasonal precautions you are likely to have a safer Christmas and your New Year's resolutions can be creative rather than crime focused.

November 28, 2001 19:47