NORTH Wales Police has issued advice to help prevent our NHS staff and other key workers becoming victims of criminals during this difficult time.

The North Wales Police Community Safety team thanked frontline and key workers for their hard work throughout these unprecedented times.

However, due to incidents elsewhere in the country, the team has offered security advice to workers.

The team said: "We don’t want to add to any feelings of worry or stress at this time, but would like to provide you with some security advice following some isolated incidents from other areas in the country. We are taking precaution in order to prevent any such actions happening in North Wales.

"We also want to reassure you that we are patrolling your neighbourhoods and communities keeping an eye on suspicious behaviour and challenging members of the public to ensure people are only out for essential reasons. If you receive any abusive comments or other issues then you should report it to us and we will deal with people who are not respecting our frontline workers. We assure you that we are #InThisTogether and will support you as you protect us during this pandemic."

NHS and key workers have been advised to keep their ID hidden when not in the workplace.

The advice said: "Although NHS staff have to carry ID and may be asked to produce this on the way to work, it is always best practice to have your ID hidden in a pocket or a bag whilst not in your workplace.

"This reduces the chances of criminals being able to identify you as an NHS worker.

"Keep your pass safe, if you lose it – report it immediately!

"When travelling, we strongly suggest that you do not do so in uniform or clothes that may identify your occupation. We are aware that clinical staff have already been advised not to travel in their uniform."

Police also warn that, with many people either working from home, on furlough leave, or self-isolating, the homes of workers who have to leave the house may be targeted.

The safety team added: "Whilst everyone else is at home, their risk of burglary is greatly reduced. However this does not mean that criminals have stopped trying to steal from houses.

"Criminals are still trying to enter houses through unlocked doors and windows."

Tips to reduce the chances of becoming a victim:

  • Always close and lock your doors and windows when you are not at home
  • Remember to set your intruder alarm when going out, if you have one
  • Close and lock doors of rooms you are not using while at home
  • Don’t leave patio or conservatory doors and windows open or unlocked
  • Make sure your regular bedtime routine includes locking up the house
  • Don't hide spare keys under flowerpots or doormats - these are places burglars will check
  • Keep keys out of sight and out of reach - don't leave them in their locks
  • Good lighting on the outside of your property is a great deterrent - we recommend LED lighting that stays on from dusk till dawn, controlled by a photocell
  • Display warning signs that your house has anti-burglary measures in place, as a deterrent
  • Consider using Tech – Alexa and Google can be set to play low level radio. Radio with lots of talking, similar to Radio 4, gives the perception that the house is occupied.