· Place valuables in a locker or drawer away from areas to which the general public has access. A bag left at the side of a desk or behind the counter presents easy access for the criminal. Wallets left in jackets on the back of chairs, or purses on view, prove similarly attractive. The theft of a handbag, wallet or purse is inconvenient, upsetting, and a personal affront.

· If you are working late unexpectedly , let your family know and if you have not got any transport, try to arrange to be picked up

At Home

· Fit door chain - always put the door chain on when answering the door.

· Fit a door viewer - check callers by looking out of the window or spy hole.

· Check identity of caller before letting them in.

· Always make sure your house or flat is secure. Always secure outside doors.

· Use appropriate alarms.

· Fit window locks.

· Hedging - large hedges creates good hiding places for people to dodge behind, consider cutting them back.

· Fit outside lighting.

· Consider gravelling your footpath - makes a noise under foot to alert someone walking up the path.

· Draw your curtains after dark - make your house look occupied.

· Join a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme (obviously!).

· Secured by Design – Some new properties are built to Secured by Design standard – if looking to buy a new property, enquire if it meets this standard.

Malicious Calls

· Don't answer with your phone number or name.

· Stay in control - show no emotion but tell the caller you don’t want their calls and for them to stop ringing you.

· Don't feel obliged to talk to malicious callers, put the phone down.

· If the calls are continuous, consider having football whistle and blowing it loudly into the phone before hanging up.

· Use initials in phone book rather than Mrs Louise …

· Never reveal you are on your own or any security arrangements.

· Keep a record of the calls – times, dates and if you know the telephone number or name of the caller for the Police and your phone call supplier.

Robbers take on many shapes and forms, from offering threats to committing violence.

In the West End one ploy is to pretend to be your friend or to offer you assistance. These robbers will put their arms around you and ‘hug’ you or pretend to dance or play football.

Whilst doing this they are emptying your pockets of wallets and mobile phones. They work alone or in pairs.

Be careful when approached. Don’t let people you don’t know invade your personal space.

Keep your property close. Know where it is at all times.

 In an emergency call 999