Staying safe and secure during the festive season

WE are heading into one of the busiest times of the year in terms of shopping and travel but it’s also a time when everyone must stay vigilant and alert as regards crime, theft and scams. Staying safe too on our roads over the holiday period has to be a top priority – here are 12 tips that will help you to enjoy a safer, more secure and happier Christmas.

1. Christmas shoppers are advised not to leave purchases unattended in their cars as we see a spike in thefts from cars, especially during peak shopping times which is 2pm to 9pm. Lock your car and don’t leave any valuables on display. We also see an increase in thefts from the person as opportunistic thieves may seize the chance to steal a purse/wallet/keys/handbag while a shopper is distracted. Don’t make it easy for the criminal, keep cash and other valuable items in an inside secure pocket or other secure location.
2. Lock-Up & Light-Up is the key message in An Garda Síochána's anti-burglary awareness campaign which encourages homeowners to protect their homes over the winter months, when burglaries traditionally tend to rise. Check your outdoor lights all work properly, and consider using a timer switch to bring on an internal light when you’re not home.
3. Online fraud and cybercrime is prevalent all year round, but with increased on-line shopping on the run-up to Christmas ensure you are safe. Never buy anything online from an un-encrypted website. You'll know if a site is secure because it will start with HTTPS, instead of just HTTP. An icon of a locked padlock will also appear, typically to the left of the URL (Uniform Resource Locator). Pay using a credit card as it will have more protection.
4. As the weather turns colder, check on older or vulnerable people who may be living alone. Dropping in to say hello or a quick phone call to make sure everything is okay will always be welcome. Snow and ice can often be a problem as many may not be able to get out to buy food, fuel or medical supplies.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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