The Fleurieu Peninsula & Kangaroo Island police would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.  They are offering the following tips and advice to ensure everyone is safe this Christmas.

Christmas is the season of shopping, receiving deliveries, and storing gifts. It’s also the season for opportunistic thieves to steal them. South Australia Police encourage you to follow these crime prevention tips to help keep your gifts secure this Christmas.

When shopping:

* Secure your handbag and keep it close to you at all times. Don’t leave your handbag, purse or wallet in your trolley or basket.

* Hold your mobile phone firmly or place it in the front pocket of your jeans/shorts. Don’t carry it in your back pocket where it can easily be grabbed.

* Keep your credit card secure and protect your PIN when making a purchase and ensure you receive a receipt.

* Cross reference receipts with bank statements to check no unauthorised transactions have been made, particularly when purchasing online.

* Always lock your vehicle and do not leave gifts on display – conceal them in the boot.

* Before online shopping, ensure your computer or tablet has up-to-date internet security.

At home:

* Avoid placing gifts under a Christmas tree that is visible from the street.

* Record serial numbers, descriptions and take photos of your most valuable gifts.

* Keep sales receipts away from the gift – file them in a secure place.

* If you have to store gifts in sheds or a garage, make sure they are kept locked.

* Use a lockable letterbox to avoid mail theft and if you’re expecting a delivery, ensure someone will be home or arrange to collect it from the Post Office or courier depot.

* Break down the packaging of large or expensive gifts and place them inside the rubbish bin - only put the bins out on collection day.

* Consider installing a security alarm on your property and turn it on when you leave or install sensor lights around your house and sheds to deter would-be thieves.

For more crime prevention tips visit www.police.sa.gov.au/your-safety/crime-prevention-and-security or attend your local police station. For information on current scams visit www.police.sa.gov.au/your-safety/scams-and-cybercrime

South Australia Police (SAPOL) is committed to working in partnership with the community to prevent crime and reduce the fear of crime to ensure that South Australia is a safe place to live, visit and do business.