Police warn on safety

KNOX police have urged residents not to let Christmas become an added bonus for thieves and vandals.
Senior Sergeant Phil Edmunds said most crime depended on opportunity, and warned residents to do all they could to reduce openings for would-be criminals.
Sen Sgt Edmunds issued a list of crime prevention tips for shoppers, businesses and residents heading off on holidays.
When shopping, Sen Sgt Edmunds said residents should keep an eye on handbags and wallets at all times, and should avoid leaving valuables exposed or easily accessible.
“Watch out in crowded shopping centres and don’t expose purses or wallets for everyone to see. Purse snatching occurs so easily,” he said.
Shopping bags, as with items such as CDs, mobile phones and credit cards, should never be left visible in parked cars, as these are a magnet for thieves, Sen Sgt Edmunds said.
Furthermore, drivers should double check they have locked their parked car and avoid parking in dark or deserted places wherever possible.
“Never leave your car with keys in the ignition or the motor running, no matter for how short a time or (for what) reason,” Sen Sgt Edmunds said.
Businesses were advised never to count money in public places and not to leave cash registers unattended at the front of stores.
Sen Sgt Edmunds also said cash should be banked regularly.
“Do not take large amounts of money to the bank without having in place proper precautions and security measures,” he said.
He said business owners and employees should take notice of suspicious people in the shop’s vicinity and report unusual activity to the police.
He said that in the event of a hold up, victims and witnesses should do what they were told, since robbers were usually excited or nervous and may be easily provoked.
Witnesses should try to remember descriptions and avoid touching anything before police arrived, he said.
Sen Sgt Edmunds’ tips extended to residents planning to spend the Christmas break away from home.
“Get neighbours to make your house looked lived in by collecting the mail, keeping a car in your driveway, mowing the lawns or keeping your front yard tidy.
“And ensure your neighbours have a contact telephone number for you,” he said.
Newspaper deliveries should be cancelled and functional burglar alarms and security lights should be in place, he said.
In a final warning, Sen Sgt Edmunds put driver safety on the agenda for the festive season.
“Please remember, no matter where you are, to drive responsibly.
“Don’t let speed, alcohol, or fatigue alter your life,” he said.