Christmas Security Tips

Good afternoon,

Driving home (or somewhere else) for Christmas…? 🎄

Being burgled can have a huge impact on victims at any time of year, but it can feel especially tough during the festive season.

And during December, burglars often target homes, knowing they may be filled with expensive gifts and other goodies.

Although the chance of being burgled in York and North Yorkshire remains relatively low, incidents are still occurring, and over the next couple of weeks, criminals will be looking for easy opportunities.

The good news? A few simple steps can make all the difference in whether your home is targeted or not.

So, before you head off for your festive adventures, don’t give burglars the chance break into your home. Try these low-cost, easy crime-prevention tips:

• Use ‘dusk to dawn’ external lighting, and timer switches for internal lights, radios and TVs so your home looks occupied.

• Ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on things, move bins, and report anything unusual.

• Consider a doorbell camera – they can be affordable, simple to set up, and you’ll get alerts if someone’s at your door.

• Keep gifts in a secure place, not in sheds or garages, and out of view near windows or doors.

• Keep car keys hidden away - don’t leave them near doors, letterboxes or windows where they can be easily seen or reached.

• Secure sheds and outbuildings and chain up high-value items like bikes and tools inside, even if they’re already locked away.

• Ensure fences and gates are locked; store tools and ladders in a locked shed.

• Secure bins at night and put garden furniture away - burglars use them as climbing aids.

• Make your home look lived in. Close curtains at night, keep a car on the drive if possible, and avoid sharing your travel plans online.

• If you have an intruder alarm, please make sure it’s set whenever you leave your home.

• Check it twice (just like Santa) - make sure all doors, windows, gates and sheds are locked before you set off.

• Don’t leave packaging for expensive items by your bins, it advertises what’s inside.

Whether you’re chasing snowflakes or sunshine this Christmas, these simple steps can help ensure you return to a home that’s exactly as you left it.

As always, our officers will be out and about across the festive period keeping you safe. 

You can also play a vital role by being our eyes and ears. If you have any information about burglary in your area, or notice something that doesn’t seem right, please contact the police.

You can report information on burglary or suspicious activity in your neighbourhood online or speak to our Force Control Room via the non-emergency number 101.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form on their website. 

In an emergency where there is a danger to life, or a crime in progress, always dial 999.