Home security for students

• If you can, don't leave your loaded car or van unattended. A few minutes is all a thief needs to break in.
• When moving into your new place, try and avoid jamming security gates or doors open. Don’t make it easy for opportunists.
• If you see any dodgy characters, report them to halls security/porters and let your house mates know.
• Be aware of people attempting to enter halls with you. If you are not sure about them, call security.
• Lock your room, even if you are just nipping into the kitchen for a second.
• Make sure that all of your valuables are insured. It does seem expensive, but it is a worthwhile investment.
• Security mark your property where possible.
• If you have a computer, find the purchase receipt in case you do have to make an insurance claim.

• Make sure you lock doors after yourself when you go out.
• Lock or close all ground floor windows and bedroom windows above flat roofs when you go out.
• Leave a light, radio or television on when you go out during the evening.
• Take valuable possessions home with you during holiday times.
• 'Property mark' all your property with your postcode and house number.

You can also register valuables such as mobile phones, iPods, PCs and laptops on the Immobilise property register website – www.immobilise.com (opens in a new window). Using this site may help you when reporting stolen or lost property to the police.