The festive season is a time for family gatherings, colourful decorations, gift-giving, road trips and days at the beach. It's also the time of year when local police want people to be especially mindful of safety risks that could turn an otherwise celebratory time of year into a tragedy.

Here are a few simple things Kensington police shared with me when I met with the new Office in Charge (OIC): 

Regardless of where you are, don't leave anything valuable on the seat of your car in plain sight. You are just making a thief's Christmas shopping easier for them. Lock your car whenever you leave it and use anti-theft screws on your number plates. 

If you go away for the holidays, either for an extended vacation or just the weekend, make sure to lock your doors and windows, including pet, garage and sheds. Set an alarm if you have one, hide valuables and important documents and ask a neighbour to keep an eye on your house and collect your mail. 

Take extra care and be patient while driving and plan ahead how to get home from Christmas celebrations if you’ve had a few drinks. Don’t forget to wear your seatbelt and don't drive tired or after drinking because it’s not just your life at risk.

Police Assistance: 131 444
Emergency Only: 000
Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 (You can report anonymously)