Crime Prevention Advice.

Crime Prevention Advice.

Good Afternoon Residents,

Here is some Crime Prevention Advice:

Distraction thieves may use everyday situations to draw your attention away from your belongings, creating an opportunity for items to be taken. 

Whether you're having a coffee, shopping, travelling or simply out and about, staying aware of your surroundings can help protect your valuables. 

🧩 Recognise the Distraction 

A distraction may seem harmless or completely unrelated to your belongings. 

Be mindful if someone unexpectedly: 

💬 Starts a conversation or asks you a question while you're distracted. 

🗺️ Asks for directions or places something in front of you that obscures your view. 

📰 Places a leaflet, paper, map or other item over or close to your phone or belongings. 

👥 Approaches as part of a group, where one person engages with you while another remains nearby. 

🎭 Creates an unexpected situation that draws your attention away from your possessions. 

Most everyday interactions are completely genuine, but it is still important to remain aware of your belongings. 

☕ Keep Valuables Close When Sitting Down 

When visiting cafés, restaurants or other busy venues, think carefully about where you place your possessions. 

👜 Keep bags closed, secure and within sight. 

📱 Avoid leaving phones or wallets unattended on tables. 

💻 Don't leave laptops or tablets behind when stepping away. 

🪑 Avoid hanging bags somewhere you cannot easily see them. 

👀 Don't Lose Sight of Your Belongings 

If someone approaches you unexpectedly, try to maintain awareness of where your possessions are. 

If an item is placed over your phone, wallet or other valuables, check your belongings immediately when the interaction ends. 

🚶 Busy Places? Be Extra Mindful 

Crowded locations can make it easier to become distracted. 

When you're in shops, transport hubs, cafés, restaurants or other busy public places: 

🔒 Secure your belongings. 

👛 Keep wallets and purses safely stored. 

📱 Put your phone away when you're not using it. 

🎒 Keep bags zipped and close to you. 

🤝 Look Out for Those Around You 

If you're out with friends, family or colleagues, help each other keep an eye on belongings. 

If you notice behaviour that concerns you, avoid putting yourself at risk by confronting anyone. Consider notifying staff, security or police as appropriate. 

🚨 Report Theft 

If you discover that something has been stolen, report it to police and let staff at the location know as soon as possible. 

If a crime is happening right now and an immediate police response is required, call 999. 

🔐 Remember: Secure, Visible, Close 

👀 Stay aware of what's happening around you. 

👜 Keep bags secure and within sight. 

📱 Don't leave valuables unattended. 

🎭 Be aware when your attention is unexpectedly diverted. 

🤝 Look out for one another. 

Distraction theft can happen quickly. Staying alert and keeping your belongings secure can help prevent an opportunistic thief from taking advantage of a momentary distraction.