Hertfordshire Constabulary releases its own 'Twelve Days of Christmas'to beat crime this festive season
Monday, 12 December, 2011
On the first day of Christmas Herts Police said to me.....
Herts Police has launched its very own Christmas Carol video - 'Twelve Days of Christmas' - with independent charity Crimestoppers, to help share seasonal crime prevention advice. The video is performed by the volunteer Constabulary Choir with guest appearances from singer Kim Wilde, Watford Football Club and police officers and staff.
It is available on the Herts Police YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/hertspolice and features the Constabulary's top twelve tips for Hertfordshire residents over Christmas, ranging from removing valuables from your car to locking your shed securely.
"This is a light-hearted approach to highlight the serious issue of preventing crime," commented Chief Constable Andy Bliss. "My officers and staff will be working hard to keep the county safe over the festive season and I hope this video helps to remind people of how they also can help to keep themselves, their families and their property safe and secure.
"I'd like to thank all those who kindly donated their time to this good cause and may I also take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy, safe and crime-free Christmas."
The full lyrics of the song and a downloadable version of the song along with a Christmas Countdown Calendar with crime prevention advice are available at www.herts.police.uk.
Tips are being posted on a daily basis on the force Twitter profile - @HertsPolice under #12days - as well as the official Facebook page (search 'Herts Police') in the lead up to Christmas too.
David Lloyd, Chairman of the Police Authority said "Although I have every confidence that the police will work together with other local partners to respond to crime effectively, the public also have an important role to play in helping to prevent crime. I hope this initiative will help members of the public take necessary steps to protect themselves and their property, and reduce the chance of becoming a victim during the festive season."
Radio adverts will be helping to spread the crime prevention message featuring a shortened version of the song performed by members of the Constabulary's Choir and Crimestoppers-funded Christmas crime prevention flyers will be handed out by Neighbourhood Teams at local events.
Sue Thompson, Chairman of Hertfordshire Crimestoppers Volunteer Committee commented: "Unfortunately, criminals do not take a break over the festive period. Hertfordshire is very safe, but if you do have information about crime or criminals over the Christmas period rest assured that Crimestoppers is open 24/7 and we never ask for your name or any personal details, we do not trace or record our calls and those giving information do not have to give a statement to the police or go to court.
"Do you have information about those regularly drink driving? Do you know of someone handling stolen goods? You can ring 0800 555 111 or send a secure online form via www.crimestoppers-uk.org. You could even be eligible for a cash reward."
The Constabulary's Top Twelve Tips for Christmas:
Day 12 - Join Neighbourhood Watch
Contact your Safer Neighbourhood Team by calling 101 and take a look at www.owl.co.uk/
Day 11 - Apply to be a Special
Over 18 and want to be a Special Constable? Log on to www.herts.police/specials
Day 10 - Postcode mark your presents
And don't forget to register valuable items for free on www.immobilise.com
Day 9 - Watch out for pickpockets
Push your purse to the bottom of your bag and zip it securely - wallets should not be in back pockets.
Day 8 - Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.co.uk
Visit and follow @HertsPolice
Day 7 - Remove shopping from your car
Remove all valuable items from your car and keep everything else out of sight
Day 6 - Lock your shed securely
Put away all tools after use and keep expensive equipment locked away
Day 5 - Call Crimestoppers anonymously
If you have information about crime call the independent charity anonymously on 0800 555 111 - you could earn a cash reward
Day 4 - Get a licensed taxi
Pre-book a licensed taxi before you go out to ensure you get home safely
Day 3 - Never drink and drive
Don't try to calculate your limit - it's not worth the risk of losing your licence or someone's life
Day 2 - Use a timer switch
Give your home the 'lived-in' look by using timer switches on lamps*
Day 1 -and lock all doors before you leave!
Always lock all doors and windows before you go out and ensure PVCu doors are properly locked by lifting the handle and using the key.
*always follow manufacturer's instructions.
