There are a number of things you can do to avoid becoming a victim of crime when you are away from the home.

Out shopping

It’s not only retailers that are happy to receive your hard-earned cash, thieves and con artists are on the look-out for opportunities on the high street to take your money as well. What can you do to stay safe when you’re out shopping?

Always take credit and debit receipts with you – some of them carry your card details

• Try to pay using a debit card rather than carrying large amounts of cash.
• Take extra care when using a cashpoint or chip and pin - cover the keypad with your hand.
• Never write down your pin number.
• If you carry a handbag, keep your purse at the bottom of it.
• Never keep your wallet in your back pocket.
• Keep your handbag zipped at all times – crowded shopping areas are very popular with pickpockets.
• Don't leave any bags, including your handbag, in the shopping trolley while you shop.
• Stay alert when using your mobile. It's very easy for someone to snatch it out of your hand.
• Don't return to your car to leave purchases in the boot before continuing with your shopping, as thieves can watch in car parks.
• Don't leave valuables on the seat of your car - they attract thieves.
• Don't leave your house keys in your car.

Roughly 1,700 people are a victim of pickpocketing every day.

 
On Holiday

Thieves are often watching for homes that look empty, particularly during school holidays, as they know this is a popular time to go away. Follow our advice to help prevent your household falling victim to burglars:

• Make your home look like someone is living in it, e.g. don't close your curtains. In daytime this shows your house is empty. Also, use automatic timer-switches to turn your lights and radios on when it goes dark.
• Cancel any newspaper or milk deliveries.
• Trusted neighbours may be able to help you by collecting your post or parking their car on your driveway.
• Try not to take a taxi to the airport. If you do, use a taxi company you can rely on, don't discuss your holiday plans and make it sound like you have a house-sitter, whether you do or not.
• Leave important documents and valuable items with other family members or a bank. Alternatively lock them in a safe.
• Do not put your home address on your luggage when you are travelling to your holiday destination. A house number and postcode will suffice if you want to label your luggage.
• If you normally leave bicycles or similar items in your shed, consider putting them in the house.
• Make sure that you lock all outside doors and windows and set your burglar alarm if you have one.
• Don't post public messages on social media that you're away from home.