1. Light up the night against crime at Christmas.

As it gets darker earlier, use a timer switch to ensure your lights come on when you aren’t at home. Most burglaries happen when a property is empty and leaving a light on is an effective way of deterring burglars.

2. Keep all valuables out of sight.

Don’t make your home a target for thieves – keep your doors and windows locked and keep all your valuables and Christmas presents out of sight.

3. Mark your property with an ultraviolet pen.

Property which is lost or stolen can be returned to its owner quickly if it is marked with the house number and postcode.

4. Be on your guard against bogus callers.

Don’t let anyone into your house that you are not expecting or who does not have an appointment. Always check identification and call the company if you are unsure. Genuine callers won’t mind. If you are suspicious, report the incident to the police.

5. Keep your car safe.

If you are Christmas shopping, make sure you park in a well lit car park and lock your car. Never leave any valuables in your car, such as mobiles or satellite navigation systems.

6. Keep yourself safe.

Personal safety is paramount. If you are going out, make sure you have your keys, money, phone and plans to get home. Make sure someone knows what time you will be back.

7. Don’t drink and drive.

Drink or drug driving can be fatal. If you are going out for the evening, stick to soft drinks if you are driving. Nominate a designated driver who can get you all home safely.

8. Alcohol related anti-social behaviour.

We want people to go out in Cleveland and have a safe and enjoyable evening out. Anti-social behaviour, particularly related to alcohol is one of our top priorities and we will clamp down on it. Know your limits.

9. Internet safety.

Safety information on a range of topics from using social networking sites to grooming is available at www.ceop.police.uk

10. Online shopping.

Make sure you use a secure online payment service and use credit cards rather than debit cards. Don’t give out your personal or financial information online unless you know your contact is legitimate and mark off your online transactions against your bank statement.

Useful Contact Details

Crime Reduction Officers can be contacted on

Hartlepool: 01429 405598
Middlesbrough: 01642 303171
Redcar and Cleveland: 01642 302662
Stockton: 01642 302371

Alternatively, you can contact Cleveland Police Headquarters on 01642 326326 and ask for your local Crime Reduction Officer or email crime.prevention@cleveland.pnn.police.uk