⚠️Stay alert and protect your valuables this Christmas in #StAlbans city centre

⚠️Stay alert and protect your valuables this Christmas in #StAlbans city centre

As the city gets busier getting to Christmas, residents and visitors are being reminded to stay vigilant and take simple steps to reduce the risk of distraction theft and burglaries.

✅ Keep your phone, wallet and cash secure in a zipped or buttoned pocket and close to your body.

✅ Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places and when using ATMs.

✅ Never leave your purse, wallet or handbag in a shopping trolley, buggy or mobility walker while shopping.

✅ Look out for elderly and vulnerable people who may be targeted by offenders.

✅ Avoid placing large amounts of cash or valuables on the passenger seat of your vehicle. Be extra cautious if approached by strangers after visiting a bank.

✅always lock your doors and windows when you popping out for a short time. lock side gate garages and shed.

🔹06 October - A man was distracted at the car park payment machine and had his bank card stolen. He later discovered that over £3000 had been spent in various shops. 

🔹30 June – A man was distracted at Halifax and later received a notification that £500 had been withdrawn, with a further £100 taken inside the building society.

🔹24 June – An elderly woman had £300 stolen after withdrawing cash from Santander.

🔹4 June – An elderly man discovered his bag had been unzipped and his wallet stolen. His bank card was later used at Tesco.