A Christmas crime wave can be avoided with precaution, Public Safety Minister Paula Cox advised yesterday.

Ms Cox noted that a "marked increase'' in thefts from parked cars and cycle thefts had been logged by Police.

And she added that drivers should resist the temptation to get behind the wheel after drinking.

Ms Cox said: "Members of the public can help themselves and the Police by ensuring that vehicles are locked and purchases secured away from plain view.

"Cycles with proper security locks are a less easy target and Police U-marking or security chip implants also help.

"It is particularly relevant at this time of year that we all take sensible precautions to reduce such opportunistic crime.'' Ms Cox added: "Another area of great concern at this time of year is safe driving on our roads.

"This is a time of celebration, but I would urge all motorists to show concern and respect for other road users and to refrain from driving if they have been drinking, in keeping with the Ministry of Transport's Safe Driving Campaign.

"This is a message which is relevant at all times -- but particularly so over the holiday period.'' And she pointed out that the public -- not just the Police -- had a duty to help fight crime and keep the roads safe.

She said: "We must recognise that the Police Service alone is not responsible for dealing with and preventing crime in our community.

"We all have a part to play and I urge all our citizens to enjoy the holidays in a safe and sensible way.'' Precautious: Paula Cox