CRIME PREVENTION IN THE NEW MILLENNIUM

As the dawning of a new century approaches, is there any new advice I, as a police officer, can give to a householder to prevent crime? Sadly I think not.

Since the beginning of time, when the first laws were written in tablets of stone, we have adapted and changed laws to suit current problems and innovations. Perhaps the rate of change has never been greater than at present, given the influx of technology. But the same basic advice on the prevention of crime in our day to day lives remains the same. There have been many advertising campaigns promoting crime prevention in recent years, all with the same message:

LOOK AFTER YOURSELVES AND YOUR PROPERTY; DON'T BE A VICTIM.

During the latter part of 1999 there will be, I am sure, many celebrations, beginning perhaps with Christmas. Families will be buying gifts for their loved ones prior to the big day, and it is at this time that our awareness of crime prevention should be heightened.

When out shopping in busy crowded streets and stores remember to look after your personal possessions - wallets, bags, credit cards and of course the gifts you are buying. At home ensure that windows and doors are locked. If out visiting, as many of us will be, leave your home as secure as possible. Burglars don't allow Christmas to put them off; in fact it can be a very profitable time for them if you don't take care. Sadly I have witnessed the scene when prior to Christmas Day a house had been entered, the gifts taken, and the empty wrapping paper strewn around the christmas tree. Someone had left a door unlocked, allowing an opportunist burglar to gain entry.

People will be at home during this period and may even speak to their neighbours for the first time in weeks! In terms of crime prevention they can be your best friends, keeping an eye on your property while you are away, especially if they are part of the Neighbourhood Watch Scheme operating in your area.

After Christmas, when the turkey has mercifully been put to rest, we will have a long period of national holidays for the Millennium Celebrations - a holiday period for which many national and local celebrations have been organised. If you are fortunate enough to be able to attend one of these events, take some wise precautions before you leave your home. On dark nights an unlit house will stand out and suggest that the occupants are away. By leaving lights on in one or more rooms you could fool the opportunist burglar into thinking that the house is occupied.

The Police will be working as usual during the Christmas and New Year period. During this time, as at any other, if you see anyone or anything suspicious, let us know, so that, hopefully, we can prevent the start of the New Year being ruined for somebody - even you!

Finally, as I write this at the end of my summer holiday, may I wish everyone a Happy New Year.

A. Brooks, P.C.