Keeping safe this summer

As many prepare to head of locally or further afield for a break over the summer months, I want to remind you all that a few simple precautions which in addition to keeping you and your family safe while you are away, will help ensure your property is protected during your travels.

Unfortunately criminals know that many homes and businesses will be unoccupied for extended periods of time in the weeks ahead and they will seek to exploit this where possible.

If you are leaving your home unattended, arrange for someone you trust to visit it regularly and remove any build up of post, cancel any regular deliveries such as milk or papers and use timers to bring lights or a radio on in different areas of your home during the hours of darkness to give the impression that there is someone at home. If you do not have an alarm fitted, give serious consideration to having one installed - not only is this a deterrent but will audibly alert people that something is not right. If you own a business similar precautions are worth considering.

If you are travelling on the roads whether at home or abroad, check your vehicle is safe to travel, carefully plan your journey, know your route and make sure that you have a means to call for assistance whether it's a fully charged mobile phone, some cash or a phone card. Don't stop if someone flags you down and only give lifts to people that you know. Also keep your doors locked and your valuables hidden from view.

When driving abroad it is important to concentrate fully, do not become distracted and remember to stop somewhere safe if you want to have a look around - remember criminals abroad will try to exploit every opportunity just the same as at home and will try to take advantage of those who may be less familiar with their surroundings.

Think carefully about where you will store money and personal documents, such as passports. Only carry the money that you need at that time and make sure that you conceal it or keep a firm hold on your bag. If there is safe make sure that you use it.

Further crime prevention advice is available on our website at http://www.psni.police.uk/

It's very easy to become overly concerned about personal and home safety but by taking some very practical and simple precautions the chances of becoming a victim of crime whilst away from home will be greatly reduced.

I hope you all, whether holidaying at home or abroad, have a very enjoyable, relaxing and most importantly safe summer.