"DON’T leave your Christmas presents on display at home" - that's the message from Gloucestershire Police.
The public are also being urged to keep an eye on shopping bags when out-and-about, not to leave gifts in view in their cars and to be a good neighbour by keeping an eye on other people's homes while they are away.
The advice comes as part of the force’s Operation Switch, which aims to tackle theft and burglary over Christmas.
Senior harm reduction advisor David McFarlane said “The only person we want to see visiting people throughout the festive period is Father Christmas."
The public can report criminal activity by calling 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
For more information on how to protect yourself from being a victim of crime log on to www.glosdoyouknow.com.
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