Police forces warn of rise in tea time burglaries ahead of Christmas
Police forces across our region are urging people to be vigilant and not be a victim of burglaries
Don't advertise your Christmas presents, that’s the message from North East police forces.
There has been a rise in burglaries over the last few years with houses targeted that have been left in darkness in the run up Christmas
The forces across our region are urging people to keep items hidden away till Christmas Day as not to advertise presents to burglars.
With December and January, the months you’re most likely to be a fall victim.
Angus Grassie from Northumbria Police believes: ‘Be mindful when you’re moving presents in and out of your homes as not to be advertising gifts to watchful eyes. To also be aware that when putting wrapping paper and boxes out after Christmas can also advertise what you’ve been given.’
Gerry McBride from Cleveland Police says: ‘We tend to let our guard down as we relax a little towards Christmas. The main thing is that we make our houses look occupied especially at this time of year when we see an increase in tea time burglaries. So if we can get people to light up their homes and make it look like they’re home’
Simple things like keeping items out of sight and putting lights on a timer can seriously reduce the risk of your house being targeted.
Officers will be out patrolling the streets and will highlight to homeowners if they see that their house could be at risk.