A PAT on the back accompanied with a seasonal warning has come from Tavistock's community constable Dave Grimbly this week.
PC Grimbly said crime reports for 1999 are lower than the previous year.
'This reflects the care you are taking with your belongings and the vigilance exercised,' he said. 'This prevents the light-fingered from helping themselves and often make them go elsewhere.'
But with Christmas on the doorstep he warned the public not to become complacent.
He said: 'Every year around Christmas, houses are broken into and those carefully wrapped presents stolen as they sit beneath the tree or window.
'In the few days running up to Christmas Day, many families go visiting relatives and friends, taking gifts for the children and all. Whilst you are out, the burglar is looking to help himself.
'There can be nothing more devastating than returning home from an outing intended to make someone else's time enjoyable, to find your own Christmas ruined.'
Presents should be put somewhere safe and all windows and doors locked before leaving the house PC Grimbly advised.
'If you know your neighbours, let them know you're going out and ask them to keep a special eye on the place, particularly if you will be away for a few days,' he added.