Enfield Council's Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing and Public Health, Cllr Christine Hamilton, said: "Enfield is a safe borough and we're determined to make it even safer so even though crime is dropping at the moment we're keen people do everything they can to reduce the likelihood of becoming victims of crime.
"We strongly recommend you don't walk and talk on your mobile as this is usually the time when people's general awareness is impaired. Working together means we can tackle crime, protect our communities and make our borough a nicer place to live in, visit and work in and Enfield Council will never be complacent in working with its partners to tackle crime and anti - social behaviour wherever they occur."
DCI Paul Healy from Enfield Police said: "Be conscious of your surroundings and be vigilant in not displaying valuables in public to avoid being targeted by thieves. We use a range of tactics to tackle robbery and theft offences using both covert and overt operations across the borough, including high visibility patrols - but do your bit and don't make it easy for thieves."
Enfield's Safer and Stronger Communities Board, made up of Enfield Council, the police and other organisations recommends residents and travellers take the following precautions to reduce the risk of being robbed.
Two thirds of the victims are aged between 13 and 16. Many phones are also stolen from unattended cars. Here are some practical measures you can take to keep your mobile phone safe.
Remember to...
• to register your mobile phone at www.immobilise.com
• keep your phone out of sight in your pocket or handbag when not in use
• use your phone's security lock code, if it has one
• record details of your electronic serial number (ESN) and consider separate insurance
• some phones have an IMEI number which is a unique identifier for the phone; you can obtain this number by typing *#06# (star hash 06 hash) into your mobile phone and it will display a 15 digit number
• property mark your phone with your postcode and door number to help police identify stolen ones
• report a lost or stolen phone to the police immediately
• inform your service provider if your phone is stolen or lost
Don't...
• attract attention to your phone when you are carrying or using it in the street
• park in isolated or dark areas
• leave your phone in an unattended car - if you must, lock it out of sight. It only takes seconds for a thief to smash a window and steal your phone.
By taking these simple precautions, you can protect your phone.
If you see anything suspicious, call the police - dial 999.