With many UWE Bristol students thinking about heading home soon for the festive period, burglars are sadly thinking about houses that will be left unoccupied and how they can target them this Christmas.

So, in my role as Neighbourhood Constable for UWE, I’d like to some advice on how you can keep your property and belongings safe and secure, so they are waiting for you when you return.

1. Doors and windows

• It might sound obvious but make sure all doors are shut and locked – bedroom door, front door, back door. Please don’t assume your mates will do it!
• Windows need to be securely locked too, and keys removed, so they can’t be easily forced open.

1. Valuables

• If you can, take expensive items like laptops, tablets, and bikes with you.
• If you can’t, make sure they are securely locked up and hidden away, out of sight of windows.
• Remember, you can register your property for free on www.immobilise.com, which improves your chance of getting it back if burglary does take place.

It’s not just the cost of replacing the item; if you lose your transport to class or your latest coursework because it’s on your laptop, this is going to affect your everyday life. So, your valuable items are worth keeping safe.

1. Bikes

• Bikes are popular with burglars, especially if high value.
• We suggest never leaving a bike unlocked anywhere, even if you are in the property and it’s much safer for it to be in your (locked) bedroom than a shared corridor.
• Even inside, always lock up your bike securely, ideally attaching it to an immovable object, like a bedstead using a strong bike lock, or better still, two strong bike locks. A D-lock might cost a bit more (£20-£30) but it’s much harder to remove than a chain.
• If you must leave your bike outdoors, then make sure it’s securely locked up, using two D-locks to secure both the front wheel and frame to a cycle stand or solid fixing.

1. Lights

• If you’re in a student house where everyone is going to be away, make it look like someone is home.
• Consider putting a light and/or radio on a timer, make sure post can be pushed fully through the door and put a ‘no junk mail’ sign up to reduce post left on your doorstep.
• If you have good neighbours who you know and trust, you could ask them to keep an eye on the property; for example, putting out and taking in your bins whilst you’re away.

1. Social media

• Be careful what you share on social media because burglars watch social media too. Don’t tell everyone you’ve left Bristol or show your student house or road name.

And just in case there is a break-in, make sure you have phone numbers for your house mates and your property owner so you can contact them quickly if needed

For more student safety advice visit https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/news/2022/09/student-safety/