Birmingham Community Safety Partnership's Guide for a Safe Christmas

How to keep yourself and others safe during this festive season

Always lock every door and window firmly before heading out or turning in for the night. Consider using a timer switch so lights come on automatically when you’re away.
Don’t put presents under the tree until the last possible moment. Draw the curtains so they’re not visible from outside.
Mark new presents with your postcode using a UV pen. Write down their serial numbers and register them at www.immobilise.com, which increases the chance of recovering them if they’re ever stolen.
Once Christmas is over, get rid of any packaging from expensive items by taking empty boxes straight to the recycling centre or local tip, so they don’t advertise what’s inside your home.

Don’t just trust the key fob; double‑check that all doors and windows are properly locked before you walk away.
Take out anything valuable before leaving the car – items like sat navs, laptops, tablets, music players, coats, or even loose coins should never be left inside.
Clean off any suction marks left on the windscreen – these can signal to thieves that a sat nav might be hidden in the glove box or elsewhere.
Avoid showing off your shopping – never leave gifts or purchases visible while you pop back into the shops. Store them securely in the boot, and once you’re home, bring everything inside straight away.

Never leave your vehicle running and unattended while it defrosts, someone could easily drive it away.
Stay with your car, and if you’re short on time, use de‑icer spray and a scraper to clear the glass more quickly.
Remain inside the vehicle while the heater clears the mist from the windscreen.
Be aware that insurance claims may be affected if the owner is deemed to be partially responsible for the theft.

Be discreet, keep it and other valuables hidden when you’re out in public.
Write down your phone’s unique IMEI number – you’ll need it if the device is ever stolen. Dial *#06# on your handset to bring the number up on screen.
Trust your instincts plan your route, steer clear of poorly lit areas, and if you feel uneasy, head somewhere busier.

Make use of tracking tools. Switch on the built‑in locator app or install a trusted one from your app store to help trace a lost or stolen phone.

Keep handbags zipped and held close, and avoid carrying wallets in back pockets.
Travel light. Don’t burden yourself with too many bags or coats, as it makes you an easier target.
Never leave pushchairs, shopping bags, or trolleys unattended. Always take your belongings with you into fitting rooms.
Handle money and cards carefully. Be discreet at tills and cash machines, store them away straight after use, and stay alert to who’s nearby.

Busy pubs, restaurants, and venues can attract pickpockets, so avoid hanging bags on chair backs and keep purses or wallets close to you.
Enjoy yourself responsibly. Heavy drinking, whether at home before heading out or during the night, can leave you vulnerable. Always keep an eye on your drink and never accept one from someone you don’t know.
Plan your journey home. Check the times of the last tram, train, or bus, or arrange a taxi in advance with a licensed local company. Never get behind the wheel if you’ve been drinking or using drugs.

For further advice call 101 or visit www.west-midlands.police.uk

Contact the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 with information about crime

In an emergency dial 999