Pendle News Room

Pendle Community Safety Partnership is urging people to keep their belongings, and themselves, safe.

Councillor David Whipp, Partnership Chairman, explained that, although Pendle has relatively low levels of crime, in the run up to Christmas incidents of theft increase.

Only last week a number of vehicles were broken into in Nelson where belongings had been left in full view.

And there is usually a seasonal increase in residential burglary at Christmas time. Travelling criminals targeted properties in West Craven recently.

Councillor Whipp said: “Our area is a very safe place to live, but at this time of year there are a lot of opportunists out there who want to steal our hard earned cash or gifts we’ve bought for friends and family.

“There are lots of simple steps we can take to protect ourselves against this.”

• When out shopping be aware of very crowded places which are ideal for pickpockets and bag thieves.

• Think about making expensive purchases last, so you can head straight home with them. Some stores might hold onto them so you can pick them up on your way back to the car.

• Don’t display evidence that you have recently purchased expensive items in your home.

• Carrier bags and wrappings give clues as to what you have purchased so be careful how you dispose of these.

• Hide the presents in your home and resist the temptation to set them all out under the tree unless your home is constantly occupied.

• Remember too that festive lights are potentially a fire risk and don’t leave them on when you leave the house or go to bed at night. 

Pendle Community Safety Partnership is also urging residents to keep themselves, and others, safe when celebrating.

It’s backing Lancashire Constabulary’s Christmas crime prevention campaign which aims to ensure residents have a safe and happy Christmas.

Police officers will be handing out advice and information to help people keep their presents and property safe over the festive season, but also giving advice on what support is out there – from police and other agencies - for people feeling less than festive.

Campaign messages will include traditional advice on how to prevent and report crime as well as where to turn if you are feeling down or have been a victim of crime and just want someone to talk to.

Police are advising people to be extra vigilant and to report anything suspicious to the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

And if anyone is feeling low and needs someone to talk to they can contact the Samaritans  by calling 116 123  samaritans.org

More advice is available at http://www.lancashire.police.uk/