| WATCH OUT
FOR PICK-POCKETS OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON
AS THE FESTIVE SHOPPING season draws near, Herts Police
is asking shoppers to look after their purses and
wallets as part of a new county-wide campaign to combat
pick-pockets and thieves.
Thefts from people tend to increase at this time of
year, as more shoppers out and about in the bustling
shopping environment over the festive season offer
more opportunity for thieves.
This new campaign - which aims to both remind shoppers
to look after their purses, wallets and bags, and
to deter the thieves themselves - is based on some
basic crime prevention advice. Retro 'public information'
style posters will be displayed in local shops and
supermarkets with the message 'Ladies, watch your
bags', along with posters warning thieves that they
may be under surveillance by Police, CCTV or store
security and staff.
Video clips featuring advice and demonstrations of
how quickly these types of thieves can operate will
also be posted on the Herts Police section on YouTube
in the coming weeks, and Crime Prevention Officers
will be working with the local retail community to
remind them how they can help keep their customers'
possessions secure.
"These petty criminals will use a range of tactics
- such as bumping into people, or snatching property
left on pushchairs, trolleys or in open handbags -
to distract shoppers and take their valuables in what
can be a distressing and inconvenient crime for victims,"
said County Crime Reduction Manager Clive Matthews.
"We are working with our partners in the local shopping
community to help remove the opportunity for thieves,
and hope the posters will serve as a reminder for
people to be alert to pickpockets when shopping over
the festive period.
"Although the people usually targeted by pick-pockets
and 'purse-dippers' tend to be women, it's also important
for men to be mindful of where they keep their wallets
- it is very easy for a pick-pocket to remove a wallet
in a back pocket without the owner even knowing it
is gone."
Some useful advice:
- Try to put your purse in a front pocket rather than
in an open bag.
- Men should also keep their wallet in a front pocket
rather than in their back pocket.
- Use a handbag that can be closed properly - zipped
up preferably - so that it is more difficult for someone
to open it and reach in.
- Keep your handbag in front of you so you can see
it at all times.
- If you use a handbag with a strap, wear it across
your body and not just over one shoulder.
- You can use a purse lanyard which attaches your
phone or purse/wallet to your bag or clothes.
- If you do keep your purse in a shopping bag, put
your purse at the bottom and not near the top and
use a shopping bag that can be closed.
- Be as secure with your mobile phone as you would
your purse or wallet and ensure it is put away safely
if you use it in the street.
- Be aware of the people immediately around you.
- Report incidents straight away - in an emergency,
always dial 999.
November 2009 |
