“DON'T give thieves an early Christmas present”-that is the message for Carmarthenshire residents as the festive period hits full swing.

The County Council are encouraging residents to keep in mind a few simple tips to avoid becoming a victim of crime this Christmas.

Christmas trees should be out of sight and away from street frontage windows if at all possible and presents not left on display. Store presents secure and out of site until the last possible moment.

Electronic and other valuable gifts should be property marked and, if people are going away for the festive season, they should let their neighbours know.

Timer switches and lights should be used when out celebrating to give the impression that somebody is home and also remember to close curtains.

The more precautions the public take, the harder it will be for the opportunist thief to spoil the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Just a few simple changes can significantly reduce the chance of becoming a crime victim.

If possible don't leave anything in unattended vehicles while out Christmas shopping and keep your shopping with you until you return to your car.

But when that isn’t possible, always lock items securely in the boot and park in a busy, well-lit area. Never leave items on show on seats or in the foot wells of vehicles as this is an open invitation to thieves. Never leave wrapped Christmas presents in an unattended vehicle.

Once Christmas is over, if possible take any boxes from valuable gifts to your nearest household waste site rather than leaving them outside for roadside bin collection so as not to advertise new purchases to potential thieves.

Council executive board member for community safety Cllr Pam Palmer said: “I want to wish everyone a happy Christmas and would urge them to take these simple precautions to avoid having Christmas spoiled by becoming a victim of crime.”