In Hertfordshire before Christmas, officers from Welwyn Hatfield North Safer Neighbourhood Team are doing high visibility patrols around Welwyn Garden City town centre as part of Operation Bauble. That’s an annual Christmas operation that aims to reassure the public in busy shopping areas. It also aims to tackle shoplifting, prevent crimes against local businesses and protect the public from purse dipping and thefts.
If you witness anyone acting suspiciously while you are Christmas shopping in Welwyn Garden City report it to a police officer or Police Community Support Officer (PCSO). Or call the police non-emergency number 101; or dial 999 if you witness a crime in progress.
Welwyn Hatfield North’s Safer Neighbourhood Team Sergeant Steve Hynes, said: “Christmas is such a busy time of year, particularly in the shopping districts of the town. We want to make sure that everyone stays safe during this time and doesn’t become a target for opportunistic thieves, therefore we would recommend considering the following crime prevention advice while out shopping:
* Keep wallets and phones in a front pocket rather than 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.
* 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. You can also register your valuables on the free online property database www.immobilise.com. That way, police have more chance of being able to return them to you if they’re lost or stolen.
* Report incidents straight away – in an emergency, always dial 999.”
