POLICE in Waverley have issued a warning to residents in the lead up to Christmas – asking them to be cautious where they place their presents.

“This time of year we always see an increase in people attempting to commit burglary,” Waverley’s borough commander Inspector Gary Smith told the Herald.

“We always try to give common advice – don’t leave your doors unlocked if you’re not around, don’t leave the windows open, all the usual things.”

He also explained community efforts go hand in hand with taking these precautionary steps.

He said: “Look out for one another. If you’re part of the Neighbourhood Watch, or if you just get on with your neighbours – or even if you don’t – just look out for things that are slightly odd.

“If something doesn’t feel right to you and you’ve got that gut reaction, then tell us.”

Farnham police sergeant Andy Crane said: “You need to be mindful of what is visible from the street. Could someone look in through a window and see a pile of Christmas presents?

“In some burglaries people see presents, open them and take the contents.

“Remember, if you’re planning to give someone money or vouchers, just be conscious that if you’re putting those under the tree, it is the equivalent of leaving money on the table.”

The team also highlighted the issue of fraud and how to recognise a fraudulent call, letter or email.

Insp Smith said: “The police, the banks or Amazon – they will never ask for detailed information from you about your accounts.

“Call the person back who has phoned you, using a number you can get from the internet or the number on the back of your bank card. Don’t ever use a number they have given you.”

Sgt Crane assured residents: “There is certainly no problem in saying to a caller: ‘I don’t do business over the telephone, I’m going to end this call now.’

“No legitimate organisation will put you in that position in the first place.”

The borough commander could look back and reflect on success throughout the year, after seeing a 2.2 per cent reduction of reports of anti-social behaviour across Waverley.

Recognising the rise in reports over the summer period, Insp Smith praised the work of sergeants across Farnham – with both a physical presence in extra patrols and “secondary activity in the background”.

To report a crime, call 999, 101 or visit www.surrey.police.uk