Happy Diwali to the Indian community from Counties Manukau Police. I would like to encourage you to celebrate responsibly; look out for your friends, family and neighbours, and stay safe during the festival. Here at Counties Manukau Police we’d like to remind you to continue to stay vigilant against criminal activity during the festive period. Burglars may be aware of the festive period and know that families are likely to be out and about involved in festive events and expect that valuable items are stored inside the empty homes.
Don’t give burglars a reason to target your home this year and spoil Diwali for you and your family. There are many things you can do to help prevent your home being targeted, including:
- Storing cash, jewellery, spare keys and financial documents in a safe and secure place, such as a safe or in an area of your home which is not easily accessed.
- Registering the serial numbers of valuable possessions online via the SNAP website (www.snap.org.nz) to ensure they can be traced in the event that they are ever stolen and recovered.
- Install an alarm system and fit sensor lights.
- Call 111 if you see any suspicious activity around your neighbourhood.
- Keep your plants and hedges well trimmed so you don’t give burglars a place to hide.
- Keep doors and windows locked at all times when you’re not home, and don’t leave your garage door open, even if you are at home.
- If you are going away for a long period get a neighbour or friend to regularly check on your property, clear your letterbox and mow your lawns.
- You can also call Crime stoppers on 0800 555 111 to report information about crime anonymously. Police also encourage all members of the public to join or start up a local Neighbourhood Support Group. Get in touch with you local Police station if you would like more information about this.
Enjoy the festival, from Counties Manukau Police.
By Superintendent John Tims, Counties Manukau Police District Commander.
