Protect your property
Whilst people pack up and get ready for their summer breaks, Warwickshire’s Community Safety Team is reminding them of some small steps they can take to safeguard their homes and belongings.
The county council service has issued some practical advice for holidaymakers as they prepare to go away, during their journeys, and at their destinations. This information is available at http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/safetytips.
Top things to remember before leaving include, making your home look occupied by putting lights on timers and cancelling milk and paper deliveries, leaving important documents and valuables with family members, and locking outside doors, windows and setting alarms.
Whilst travelling, the team advises keeping all valuables in hand luggage, using an extra padlock on bags and not leaving suitcases or belongings unattended at any time.
Once travellers have reached their destination the team have some further tips to help ensure safety, warning people to be extra vigilant in new surroundings. They suggest keeping passports, and currency in separate places, only carrying what is necessary, making sure jewellery and valuables are out of sight, and keeping bags close-by and fastened to reduce the danger of pick-pocketing.
Community Safety Manager, Julie Sullivan, said: “The website advice helps people to minimise the risks of theft and damage to their property and belongings whilst away on holiday to offer extra peace of mind to residents.
“Many people may have heard this advice before but we want to remind them of these important messages as becoming a victim of crime during a holiday can be incredibly distressing and spoil what should be a relaxing break. “
For more information about Warwickshire community safety initiatives or for further advice about keeping safe and protecting yourself please visit http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/communitysafety.