Kids warned about street thefts

British kids are being warned to keep their hi-tech gadgets under wraps to protect themselves from being robbed.

Although many will have been given brand spanking new mobile phones and dinky MP3 players for Christmas, a Government-led campaign kicking off next week is warning them no flaunt them when out on the streets.

"SAFE week" - which intends to "protect schoolchildren from robbery" - is running at a time when thieves use longer hours of darkness to target victims.

Hazel Blears, Home Office minister, said the government is "determined to increase young people's safety, which is why we have joined forces with Crimestoppers to make sure that over the coming week - a peak time for robbery - kids are taught how to reduce their chances of being a victim.

"Lessons in 'SAFE' week will focus on how simple precautions - keeping mobile phones hidden, not flashing about valuables like MP3 players, keeping lockers locked - can make the difference between keeping or losing treasured possessions." ®

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