DOH!
57% of burglaries against student properties were through an open window or door. It could have been really easy to stop all of these happening just by taking simple measures to ensure the security of the property.

Criminals are looking for an easy target and students own more expensive consumer goods per head than the rest of the population. It is no surprise then that around 20% of students become a victim of a crime each year. Please don’t make yourself an easy steal. Burglary can only take a few seconds so be aware of your actions and reduce the risk, heartache and hassle that having your property stolen can cause.

• Keep your doors and windows locked when you go out. Sounds simple and kind of obvious but so many burglaries could have been avoided by doing this.
• If you share a door with other tenants, take responsibility and make sure it's locked at all times. In halls make sure the main entrance is closed behind you and lock your room even if you are only popping down the corridor to see a friend.
• In a hall of residence, be careful who you let in or who follows you into the building.
• Don't leave cash and valuables on display in your room. Leave a light or radio on when you go out to give the impression someone is in - maybe use a timer switch and low energy light bulbs. The Knowledge team will be giving these out over the start of term so keep your eyes open for that.
• Keep your car keys out of sight. Mark your property with the initials of your university and your student ID number - this makes it harder for a burglar to sell stolen goods and can help the police to return items to you.
• Protect yourself with insurance - keep lists of the make, model and serial numbers of your electronic items to help police track them down if they are stolen.

Worried about security in your house?
The vast majority of burglaries in Leeds’ student areas are ‘walk-in’ burglaries. The thieves just try their luck on an unlocked door or an open window. If you use your common sense, you should be fine! So, here’s some useful tips for crime prevention!

• Check the window locks, especially on downstairs and basement windows!


• Check the burglar alarm!


• Check your doors – make sure they’re strong, secure and with proper locks!


• Lock up properly - don’t leave windows and doors unlocked or open when you’re not in the room or house!


• Don’t leave valuables easily visible!


• Get insured – it’s better to be safe than sorry! Be aware that some insurance companies don’t pay out if the thief gets in through an unlocked door or window!