Police in Gwent are offering shoppers a special gift this Christmas to help keep their purses and wallets safe during the busy, festive period.
Neighbourhood Policing Teams are handing out small, tinkling bells that attach to purses and wallets to help cut the number of thefts and bag snatches in Gwent – advice is also being given on how to avoid becoming a victim of theft.
Hundreds are being given out free of charge in the run up to Christmas in the hope shoppers will hear them when would-be pickpockets try to take their purses, wallets or steal their bags – the key rings have helped cut the crime in other parts of the UK like Leicestershire and Sheffield.
There’s so much going on at this time of year that it’s easy to get distracted whilst you are out shopping or celebrating over the festive season.
Whilst incidents of pick pocketing and theft are relatively low, it’s still important to keep a close eye on your purse / wallet. Purse bells can help to make you aware when your purse or wallet is being moved – making it easy for you to find at the bottom of the bag and alerting you to any potential thieves trying to steal it.
Remember to close and zip shut your handbag in between accessing your purse. When returning your purse to your bag, make sure that you put it at the bottom of your handbag. That way, if you do forget to fully shut your bag, your purse will be difficult for someone to find easily.
Have a safe and happy Christmas and 2015 from Gwent Police.
