The 12 Safety Tips of Christmas from the Gardaí

The Garda Síochána has published its Twelve Safety Tips of Christmas as a reminder to people about how to protect themselves and their property during the busy festive period.

Sergeant Kelvin Courtney, from Garda Community Relations, said: "Christmas should be a time of year for everyone to enjoy.

"Our aim is to help people have a safe and peaceful Christmas, and not have to spend the festive period dealing with difficult and possibly traumatic situations for themselves or their families.

"The crime prevention tips published today are simple steps people can take to increase their safety whether they are out an about or in their homes this Christmas."

The Twelve Safety Tips of Christmas:

1. Drink alcohol responsibly. Wherever the celebration - Everyone should promote safe behaviour.

2. Plan your night out, tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back

3. You, your family or friends should never walk home alone, remember safety in numbers. If you have no other option, walk in well lit areas.

4. Take care when carrying your handbag, smart phone or tablet in crowded areas. Keep them in a safe location, within view.

5. Watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas. Keep handbags zipped and don’t put your wallet in your back pocket. In bars and restaurants take care about where you store coats and handbags.

6. At ATMs only take out as money much as you need. Cover your pin number and call the Gardaí if you believe the machine has been compromised.

7. Take care of your Christmas shopping and never leave it unattended, especially in your car

8. Park and lock your car in secure, well lit areas keeping valuables including bags and coats hidden

9. Secure all doors and windows of our home and use your alarm when the house is vacant and when home at night.

10. Don’t leave Christmas presents in view from the outside of your home

11. If you’re expecting deliveries, always make sure someone is there to collect it or arrange for a trusted neighbour to take it in.

12. If you’re going away for Christmas, make your home look occupied, leave a light on and get a trusted neighbour to check on your property.