DON’T LET THIEVES STEAL YOUR CHRISTMAS

As the Christmas Shopping season gets into full swing the AA has issued a warning to motorists to be on their guard against car crime, especially in Dublin.

"The statistics tell us that every year there are over 14,000 cases of theft from unattended vehicles." Says Director of Policy Conor Faughnan. "Over half of these thefts occur in the Dublin area, and of course the Christmas season sees many people come up to the capital to do their shopping."

"Shoppers are more likely to leave valuable contents in the car at this time of year, and thieves know it" says Faughnan. "There's no way to remove the risk entirely but there are some precautions you can take to make sure you don't let a thief ruin your Christmas."

"If you must leave valuables unattended, lock them in the boot of your car before you reach your destination." Says Faughnan. "Don't leave packages on the back seat, and under no circumstances should you cover packages with a coat or blanket. This just tempts the experienced thief."

Obviously you should check that the car is locked when you park it, but you should also have doors locked when you are in traffic. A thief can steal a bag, a phone or a wallet in a split second if the doors are open. Use supervised car parks if you can; if you are parking on-street remember that although you may be parking in daylight it will be dark well before 5.00 pm. Park in a well lit area if possible.

Tips for a stress-free Christmas:

Don't be a temptation to the thief - lock your valuables in the boot
Park legally in a secure place
Lock the doors when driving
Park before 11.00 am for greater comfort
Use off street car parks
Lock the car! It is all too easy to forget the obvious.

The city centre and the major shopping centres around the M50 are at their busiest from lunchtime on each day. Early bird shoppers who get in in the morning will find it easier to get parking and will find shops less crowded.

"There is a great buzz in our towns and cities in the run up to Christmas." Says Faughnan. "With a little foresight and some basic care, you can enjoy all of the craic of the season without falling victim to car crime."

Operation Freeflow

Operation Freeflow continues in Dublin until Christmas Eve. Additional Gardai will focus on manning the crucial junctions in the city centre. Shoppers are encouraged to come into the city, where the priority of the Gardai will be to keep traffic moving freely. Shoppers can play their part by using public transport where possible. See 'News & Advice' for further details.

Dublin On-Street Car Parking Charges Christmas Shopping Period

On-Street Car Parking Charges in Dublin City Centre, will be suspended in a designated retail zone, after 2pm every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Approximately 1,380 on street car parking spaces will be made available for free at these times in this designated area until Sunday 27^th December.

Click here to view the map of the zone stretches from St Stephens Green to Dorset St.

Parking in Streets outside those in the designated area will attract parking charges as normal. Information concerning eligible Streets will be provided on the Parking Metres and the public is advised to read these notices when parking. Click here for information on Dublin Carparks