Christmas Crime
Posted on 21st November 2019 at 11:00
Author: Stephen G Rudge
Chairman & Managing Director, Eurolink Security Installations Ltd
As we approach the Christmas season, it would be a good idea to consider the potential of becoming a victim of crime.
In addition, as political uncertainty deepens, crime will increase!
In previous articles, I have reflected my view that crime is on the rise. It gives me no pleasure to note that the British government has now admitted this fact.
Our government has reported that violent crime, contrary to previous reported statements by the Police, is in fact on the increase. The point is that, in order to meet what are basically meaningless targets, the public are not being told the truth.
This goes to the issue of trust between the public, Police and central Government. Due to manpower reductions and financial pressures, burglary is - unbelievably - NOT a Police priority!
As Christmas approaches, certain types of crime increase, so here is some advice on how not to become a victim...
BURGLARY
Christmas is a good time for burglars both before and after the holiday, not least because people are away from their homes and workplaces, and there are lots of presents to steal.
1. Ensure that presents are kept out of sight and not visible through windows of the house or car.
2. Keep garden gates shut and locked.
3. After Christmas, dispose of packaging discreetly. Xbox packaging outside the front door indicates to the burglar that desirable goods are available to steal inside.
4. When going out, even for a short time, ensure that doors and windows are locked. If away overnight, leave a light on.
5. Remember to set the burglar alarm. If you don’t have one, consider having one fitted.
6. Ensure that outbuildings and sheds are locked. Imagine the distress if your child lost their new bike which was a Christmas present.
7. Invest in some solar controlled perimeter lighting.
8. Lock away identity documents, passports, birth certificates, pin numbers, etc.
CARAVANS
In winter, the number of caravans stolen from driveways increases. They usually end up with itinerant travellers or overseas.
In a recent joint UK Police operation with the Spanish Police on the Costa Blanca, over 70 stolen caravans were recovered! The occupiers of these caravans were often innocent parties and it is unfortunate that they had purchased what turned out to be a stolen unit. These victims will ultimately lose their money, once legal ownership is confirmed.
So, if you are planning to winter in Spain or considering buying a caravan in the UK or overseas, consider these basic indications of a ‘dodgy deal’...
1. Check the Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN which is etched on the windows and chassis. Both of these numbers should match.
2. Look for scratches or alterations to the VIN number.
All caravans manufactured since 1992 by members of the National Caravan Council have their details recorded on the Caravan Registration and Identification Scheme (CRIS) database.
You can check a caravan VIN number by phoning CRIS on 01722 411 430.
For further information, please also use www.hpicheck.com. The service costs around £20 and is well worth the money.
Remember: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
BOGUS COLLECTIONS
At this time of year, con men trade on the goodwill of the vulnerable and elderly.
Do not let people into your home unless you are expecting them and have confirmed identity.
If in doubt call the Police.
Do not deal with ‘door to door’ repair men, gardeners and roofers, etc.
Otherwise that loose tile, which they supposedly noticed whilst working in the road, could prove very costly indeed!
In addition, if you are going away for Christmas, remember to cancel papers, milk, etc.
Ideally, arrange for a family member or neighbour to check the property and clear away the post, etc.
If you require any assistance, please contact me directly via my office (01242 862711) or on our company website contact form.
Eurolink Security is an ISO 9001-2008 Quality Assured National Security Inspectorate (NSI) Gold Company, SSAIB Registered Company working to the highest standards in the Industry. We are proud of our reputation for providing Outstanding Customer Service and Satisfaction which we have earned over the last 30 years. Eurolink Security is also Insurance Approved Company and is proud to have achieved the Investors in People award.
Eurolink Security has achieved the Trust Mark endorsement, which is a Government-backed initiative for reliable and trustworthy tradesmen to carry out works inside and outside your premises. Eurolink Security has also achieved the NAPIT Certification for Electrical Installation and testing.
Share this post: