POLICE in Derry are advising householders to make it a not so happy new year for thieves and crooks.
They want the public to keep their homes and vehicles locked and secure to keep burglars and thieves on the sunny side of the latch.
And if their home or car happens to brokeN into, police want the public have securely marked valuables in case they are stolen.and can help them to be traced.
Another tip is to take a picture of their valuable items.
PSNI Foyle say on their Facebook page: “There is plenty of advice on protecting your property but what if something was stolen???
“Christmas is over for another year and this is as good a time as ever to get your camera phone/digital camera out and get some photos of your valuable possessions.
“Use it to take pics of your bikes, computers, jewellery etc.
“Take pics of serial numbers and keep them in a safe place along with receipts of your most valuable items.
“You would be surprised how often our call handlers, at all 3 Call Management Centres, take reports of theft where the reporting person cannot remember colours or other identifying marks.
“It could help in the recovery of property or prevent it from being sold on. It may also help with an insurance claim.
“We would be very happy not to receive this type of call, strongly advising prevention is far better than detection.
“We want your property to be as secure as possible. Do not make it easy for the thief.
“Always feel free to report any suspicious activity on 101 or in an emergency 999.”