Chappel

Update

Please accept best wishes from the Police Community Teams for 2012 and please spare a thought for crime prevention in your busy lives; please be aware of a few ‘top tips’ to help keep you and your property safe as follows;
Please observe the rules and do not drink and drive, for all involved it ruins lives;
have that can of de-icer and scraper handy so you can see out the windows when it is frosty in the mornings, and leave more time for the journey.

When shopping try not to leave items especially handbags or wallets/purses on show in your supermarket trolley or car, keep valuables with you. Lock other items away in the boot along with that Satellite Navigation System that thieves like to steal by smashing windows and breaking into your cars. Leave lights or a radio on in the home to create a presence whilst you are out. Check your house/gate locks are in order, and always check your smoke alarm is working while you are about it.
If you are experiencing any nuisance issues there is a designated ASB hotline at the Council of 01206 282581.

Theft of Catalytic convertors from vehicles, particularly vans are occurring across Colchester; where you can please secure your vehicles in a garage and if you witness any strange behaviour around vehicles report it to the Police, for example if people are seen under a vehicle or tampering with the bonnet at night you may find the strange and wish to report it.

The stealing of metal for scrap has also hit the headlines, churches and old buildings are being targeted for the lead and copper and precious metals and tiles, this also includes our railway links, and remember, see it, hear it, report it at the time it is happening.
Crime trends- With fuel costs rising please be aware that fuel for heating and transport is being stolen-
Please consider, security lights may deter thieves, for further crime reduction advice the Crime Reduction Officer can be contacted at Colchester Police Station by dialling 101in an emergency still dial 999.