Police issue advice to prevent thefts during the Christmas and New Year Holiday Season

On the occasion of the Christmas and New Year holidays, the General Regional Police Directorate of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace has issued a set of recommendations to help citizens protect themselves from theft while traveling or celebrating during the festive period.

The police urge citizens who plan to be away from home to take simple but essential precautionary measures.

Before Leaving Home

• Ensure that all doors and windows are securely locked before departure.
• Inform only trusted relatives, friends, or neighbors about your absence so they can keep an eye on your home; in special cases, you may also notify the local police station.
• Do not leave notes indicating when you will return or how long you will be away.
• Avoid leaving mailboxes overflowing with newspapers or flyers, as this signals absence.
• Do not leave ladders, furniture, or bulky items in gardens or yards that could help burglars gain access.
• Make sure your home does not appear completely closed or abandoned.
• Use automatic lighting timers where possible.
• Activate your alarm system, if available.
• Avoid keeping large sums of money or valuable items at home.
• If neighbors or relatives notice suspicious activity, immediately contact the police by calling 100 or your local police station.
• In the event of a burglary, report it immediately to 100 or the local Crime Investigation Department.

While Traveling

• Never leave bags, wallets, cash, credit cards, sunglasses, or vehicle keys unattended.
• Do not leave luggage unattended unless it is securely stored.
• When using public transportation, avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Use ATMs with caution and discretion.
• If traveling by car or motorcycle, do not leave valuables inside, or place them out of sight.
• Never leave vehicle keys in or on the vehicle, even for a short time.
• Park in well-lit areas whenever possible, especially at night, and activate your alarm system if available.

During Your Stay

• Always lock hotel rooms or rented accommodation when leaving, even briefly.
• Store money and valuables you do not need to carry in a secure place.
• During Entertainment and Social Activities
• At bars, cafés, restaurants, and outdoor events, do not leave wallets, mobile phones, sunglasses, keys, jackets, bags, or waist pouches unattended on tables or nearby chairs.

Remember

If you lose belongings, become a victim of theft, or discover that your accommodation has been broken into, notify the police immediately by calling 100.

The police emphasize that vigilance and basic preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of theft during the holiday season.