
Hertfordshire's schoolkids are being urged to stay safe this half-term...
Police say incidents of robberies increase slightly during the school holidays - with the latest gadgets including iPods, cameras and consoles being the target for would-be thieves.
Officers have told JACK fm the will also be stepping up patrols during half-term to deter any would-be offenders.
Detective Inspector Paul Doran, of the Crime Reduction Unit, told JACK fm: "With half term approaching it's likely many young people will be out and about, socialising and catching up with friends.
Electronic gadgets - which tend to distract users from what's going on around them - can be very easy for thieves to spot, making the owner more of a potential robbery target when being used. I would therefore remind young people to be mindful when using mobile devices whilst out and about and to keep them secure or out of sight.
I would also like to warn opportunistic thieves, who may consider using half term to their advantage: we are stepping up patrols throughout the county to apprehend anyone committing crime."
Paul continued: "As well as keeping gadgets securely tucked away and being more aware of what is going on around you, you can postcode mark your valuables with a UV pen and register them on a free property database like www.immobilise.com. This can work as a deterrent to thieves and can increase the chances of your property being recovered if it is stolen."