Crowded shops, endless present lists, boozy works parties and family get-togethers - the Christmas season can be traumatic enough without falling victim to Christmas thieves, warns the Association of British Insurers.

The Christmas season is one of the busiest times of the year for thieves with thefts expected to rise by around 10% during December. Last year, some 70,000 homes were burgled in the run-up to Christmas by thieves on the look-out for Christmas presents. Homes left unoccupied while their owners are away visiting friends and relatives over the Christmas break are particularly vulnerable, as are cars left unattended with gifts on the back seat.

ABI's advice to thwart Christmas thieves is:

• If going away over the Christmas period, ask a trusted neighbour, friend or relative to keep an eye on your home, reporting anything suspicious to the police.

• Don't leave presents where they can easily be seen from outside your home, attracting the attention of thieves.

• Avoid leaving gifts in an unattended vehicle, especially on the back seat in full view of potential thieves. If it must be left unattended, leave property in a locked boot, out of sight.

• When shopping, keep a close eye on your possessions, ensuring that they are not left unattended.

• Check your home insurance policy as many will automatically increase the sum insured, up to a specified limit, to cover the additional value of Christmas presents.

Tony Baker, ABI's Deputy Director General, offers some seasonal advice:

"It is not just shops that are busy this time of year; burglars are also out in force as they know there are plenty of easy pickings to be found. Homes laden with Christmas presents are particularly attractive to burglars, so it is especially important to take extra care this time of year making sure your home is secure. If you don't, thieves could make it a very unmerry Christmas for you and your family."

Notes

The figure of 70,000 homes burgled is based on insurance claims received. It does not take into account households without insurance who may have suffered a burglary.

For further information, contact:

• Malcolm Tarling +44 020 7216 7410 (Home +44 020 8297 9510)
  

• Suzanne Moore +44 020 7216 7411 (Mobile 0378 794717)

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