POLICE have repeated a warning urging householders to stay vigilant over the festive period so they do not become a victim of crime.

Crime prevention specialists at Durham Police are urging people to spend a few minutes taking simple security measures that could save them a lot of expense and heartache if gifts are stolen.

They are reminding people:

* Not to leave items in a vehicle while shopping;

* To leave a light on in empty properties;

**To ask neighbours to observe homes while on holiday;

* Not to keep valuables in sheds or outbuildings;

* Not to leave valuables on display, where an opportunist thief could target something seen through a window.

Sergeant Kelvin Vincent said: "Even if you are in your home, keep external doors locked while in other parts of the building to prevent someone sneaking in.

"And after the celebrations are over, do not put the present boxes out next to the bin. Instead of advertising what's new in your home, dispose of packaging at the local recycling site."

Crime prevention roadshows will be held at The Drop-In Centre, West Auckland, today from 10am to noon, and in an empty unit next to Stevens Newsagents, Newton Aycliffe town centre, on Tuesday, from 9am to 3pm.