Use common sense: Lock up before break

UW–Madison students, faculty and staff can help prevent burglaries and thefts over the upcoming winter break by using common sense and taking basic security precautions.

UW–Madison Police and interim Dean of Students Lori Berquam say thieves may target apartments, dorms and offices during break, when many members of the campus community travel home for the holidays or leave town for vacation.

“Things tend to get a little chaotic with finals and the holidays,” says Berquam. “Take a second, catch your breath and take a good look around to make sure everything is secure before you leave.”

Since thefts and burglaries are “crimes of opportunity,” common sense can help stop criminals. Some useful safety tips include:

• Lock apartment and office doors and windows before leaving for the holidays.
• Don’t leave attractive items out in plain sight. Burglars frequently target cash, iPods, laptops, bikes, jewelry, video games, bikes, digital cameras and televisions. If possible, store them in a locked drawer, closet or interior room. Or, take small valuables with when you leave.
• Draw curtains and shades and set a timer for lamps.
• Temporarily stop mail and newspaper delivery.
• Let a landlord, property owner or co-worker know how long you’re going to be gone and how you can be reached in the event of a problem.
• Record serial numbers for expensive items, such as VCRs and bikes. Property can be engraved with a driver’s license number.
• If you own a scooter, remember that it cannot be stored inside a university residence hall. Make sure to use an external locking device around a tire to prevent theft.
• To help reduce the risk of accidental fire, make sure to unplug large electrical appliances, including computers, stereos and microwaves.

If you have security questions, call UW–Madison Police, (608) 264-COPS or visit http://www.uwpd.wisc.edu/Crime%20Prevention%20Tips.html. In an emergency, call 911.