Keep Your Christmas Cheer

Keep Your Christmas Cheer – Don’t Let Pickpockets Steal It! 🎄

The festive season is here – lights are twinkling, shops are buzzing, and Hounslow is full of life. But while we’re enjoying the celebrations, pickpockets and opportunistic thieves are also on the lookout. Let’s work together to make sure Christmas stays safe and joyful for everyone.

Your local police team cares – and we’re listening, learning, and trying to improve. We’ve seen social media posts about thefts and frustrations, and we hear you. We’re increasing patrols in town centres and transport hubs, but we need your help too. Together, we can stop crime before it happens.

Top Tips for Staying Safe This Festive Season

✅ Keep your phone secure
• Don’t leave it on café tables or shop counters – thieves can grab it in seconds.
• Use your phone’s security features: strong PIN, tracking apps, and IMEI recorded.

✅ Protect your wallet, purse, and handbag
• Keep bags zipped and close to your body.
• Avoid hanging bags on chairs or leaving them unattended.
• Be alert in crowded places – thieves often work in pairs using distraction techniques.

✅ Stay aware in busy areas
• Hounslow High Street, Chiswick High Road, Brentford Lock, and Feltham Centre are bustling – and that’s where thieves strike most.
• If someone approaches you with a map or leaflet, keep an eye on your belongings.

✅ Businesses – secure your tills and staff belongings
• Remind staff to keep personal items out of sight.
• Consider CCTV coverage near entrances and payment points.

If You See Something – Say Something

Report suspicious activity or theft immediately:
📞 Call 999 in an emergency
📞 Call 101 for non-emergencies
🌐 Report online at met.police.uk

Every report helps us build intelligence and catch offenders. Don’t assume someone else will report it – your call could make the difference.

Let’s Make Hounslow Safer Together

We know some comments online suggest “police don’t care” – but we do. Every theft matters to us because it matters to you. Instead of frustration, let’s channel energy into community action and partnership. Your vigilance, combined with our patrols, means fewer victims and a happier, safer Christmas for all.

Hounslow is stronger when we stand together. Let’s keep the festive spirit alive – not let thieves steal it!