Advice Centre

Student Security

After the first year at University or College spent living in halls of residence, most students find themselves living in shared private accommodation. In excess of 10% of students living this way will experience a break in or burglary.

As a student, whether living in Halls or in other accommodation, personal security and protection of your property can be achieved if you follow these hints and tips.

• Carry a personal alarm
  There is a range of personal alarms that are discrete and effective. They can be multi-function and integrate sirens (140+Db) with torches and typically have attachments for handbags, laptop cases, briefcases, backpacks or belt-clips. You can even find personal alarms designed to look like a wrist watch.
  
  
• Insure your belongings
  Use a comparison web-site to achieve the best premium and always make sure that you renew your policy each year.
  
  
• Fire and Smoke Protection
  Most private student accommodation is now regulated and licensed so they have a smoke detector with gas and electrical certificates. However, this remains the minimum level of cover. Consider placing smoke and CO detectors in your own room and having a fire blanket with a domestic fire extinguisher in the kitchen/dining area.
  
  
• Lock all doors and windows
  Doors and Windows are obvious ways for a thief to enter your home so even if you are going out for just a short time make sure that you and your housemates secure the property before leaving. Consider putting a reminder note on the inside of your front door so that no one leaves without seeing it. Ask you landlord to fit window locks if they aren t already fitted.
  
  
• Never hide your keys outside your house
  Invest in a Key Safe. These small lockable units can be used to store keys just in case you lock yourself out or need trusted others to enter your property when you are not there.
  
  
• Install a burglar alarm
  These are fantastic deterrents. A Burglar Alarm need not be expensive and with wireless technology they are very easy to fit. You can even install a simple wireless alarm in your own room. A Dummy Bell Box is another easy and inexpensive way of protecting your home; it can be easily fitted to the outside of the building and will help to deter thieves.
  
  
• Use a UV pen to mark your property
  By marking your possessions with your postcode and house number it may be possible for the police to trace you and return them to you if they are stolen. These kits are inexpensive and often provided free of charge by your university or the local police force.