🛍️ Staying Safe While You Shop — A Message From Your Local Police

🛍️ Staying Safe While You Shop — A Message From Your Local Police

Hello everyone,

Whether you live here, work here, or are just visiting for the day, we want you to enjoy our high streets with confidence.

Over the past few weeks, officers and shop staff have reported an increase in shoplifting and pickpocketing in busy areas. We’re working hard to tackle this, but there are also a few simple ways you can help keep yourself — and your belongings — safe while you’re out and about.

✅ Top tips to protect your personal items

Keep bags zipped and held close to your body.

Avoid keeping phones, wallets or bank cards in back pockets.

If you use a backpack, keep valuables in the inner pockets, not on the outside.

Be aware of “distraction tactics” — someone bumping into you, asking for directions, or creating a commotion to divert attention.

✅ Look out for each other

If you notice someone behaving suspiciously around shoppers, bags, or personal items, please report it to us. Your information helps us build the bigger picture and respond quickly.

✅ Our officers are out on patrol

You’ll see neighbourhood officers, PCSOs and plain‑clothes teams working in retail zones to deter offenders, protect shoppers, and act swiftly on reports.

✅ If something doesn’t feel right — tell us

In an emergency: Call 999

Non‑emergency: Call 101 or contact us online

To share information anonymously: Contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Let’s work together to keep our high streets welcoming, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.
Thank you for helping us protect our community.

Stay safe — and enjoy your shopping.

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Bob Swallow
(Metropolitan Police, Sgt and A/INSP for Hounslow Borough, WA BCU - Hounslow borough integrated licensing and ASB)