With Christmas and holidays looming it is usual see a spike in house break and enters and vehicle break-ins.

We wish to remind both residents and holidaymakers to remain aware and alert at all times. The NSW Government recently ran a “Look, Lock, Leave” awareness campaign, and those principles are encouraged to all. These include ensuring that your homes are secure when left vacant, see that someone collects your mail and newspapers, and ask neighbours to keep an eye on your property. Don’t leave clues that you are away. Even if you are at home, make sure your screen doors are locked and windows secured. Don’t display valuables in your cars, particularly when parked in popular tourist spots.

If at any time you see or suspect any kind of erratic or suspicious behavior – report it, don’t ignore it! Our police are out there working to keep all of us safe. Police Assistance line is 131 444, and Crime Stoppers is 1800 333 000. Grafton Police (24 hours) is 6642 0222.

And lastly, a reminder from our local police, if you are asked to leave licensed premises and don’t, a $550 fine will be your Christmas present from police – and you don’t have to be intoxicated to be asked to leave.

Neighbourhood Watch extends its Seasons Greetings to all, and wishes everybody a happy and safe Christmas.

Our next meeting will be on February 3, Maclean Bowling Club, at 5.30pm. All are welcome.

Warren Rackham