Protect your new gifts: Police

With the string of property-related crimes reported across the region in recent months, Deniliquin-based Murray River Police District Chief Inspector Michael Fuller said a few simple steps could prevent theft or make it easier to recover your items.

“If you have new things at home, such as bicycles, electronic devices, TVs or jewellery, it’s never been a better time to ensure you protect your new presents,” he said.

“Easy ways to do this, for bicycles and other items, is to engrave a licence number, so if your property is lost or stolen, there is a great chance police can return the property to you.

“This goes for new items such as electronic devices, mobile phones, TVs and stereo equipment too.

“If you can’t engrave on it, it’s a great time to record serial numbers, IMEI numbers and the like and keep them somewhere safe.

“It’s the same approach if you have been lucky enough to get some nice jewellery or watches.

“Having photographs and details of these items in a safe place can also assist police if you lose the item, or it is stolen.”

Chief Insp Fuller said it was easy to be swept up in the excitement of the new items, but a few minutes now could be of immense benefit later.

He said it was also the best time to ensure your insurance policy was updated to reflect new property.

“It might not even be a break-in, it could be just lost property, but the more you do now, the better chance police can return your property to you.”

Meanwhile, Dectective Chief Inspector Jy Brown reminded people to remain extra vigilant, and look out for their neighbours over the holiday period.

“Secure your cars and belongings, notify neighbours if you’re going to be away and put away and lock up items overnight,” he said.

“This extends to our visitors camping or at local caravan parks.

“People are also welcome to notify police that their homes will be vacant these holidays, by coming into the station and filling out a form.

“This helps us task our police to keep an eye on things.”