• Top Tips

• Gloucestershire Home
• Police Home
• Features
  >
  • Photo Gallery
  • News
  • Events
  • Memberships
• Information
  >
  • Top Tips
  • Welcome
  • Safety Information
  • Latest News

TOP TIPS FOR STUDENTS

Home

It costs £900 to replace all the stuff stolen after an average burglary.

• Contents insurance (can cost as little as £20 per year)

• Always lock your doors and windows (half of break ins are through unlocked doors and windows)

• Keep cash in your bank account don’t leave it lying around.

• List your possesions (including make, model and serial numbers) and mark them with a UV pen

• Fit a timer switch (can cost as little as £2) to make it look like you are in

• Make sure your Laptop, MP3's and other valuables can not be seen from outside.

• Ask your landlord to fit window locks if you don’t have any. Its cheaper to fit them than mend a broken window

• During the Christmas, Easter and summer vacations take all items of value home with you

• Do not let people into your property without first checking who they are. All official bodies will carry full identification so ask to see identification cards and call the appropriate company if you remain unsure. If in doubt, do not let anyone into your property.

Bicycles

Nationally, over 100,000 bicycles are reported stolen every year. They are a popular target for thieves because they can easily be sold.

• Get your bike frame marked with your postcode

• Always lock your bicycle whenever you leave it even when just going into a shop. The best kind of cycle lock is a D-lock. Chains can deter casual thieves but can be easily cut with the right equipment.

• Always lock your bike to something solid, preferably a purpose built cycle rack

• If you have quick release wheels, take off the front wheel and lock it to the frame and back wheel

• Remove smaller parts and accessories, especially lights, pumps and quick release saddles

• Record all of your bike’s details including a photograph. These will assist the police who may be able to match them to recovered bicycles.

Cars

"Over a quarter of all recorded crimes are car thefts or theft from cars - of items like stereos and mobile phones"

If your car is stolen or broken into, it could mean weeks of expensive inconvenience and losing your no-claims bonus. And what would you do if your course notes and lap-top were taken with the car?

• Never leave a car unlocked or a window, boot or sunroof open - even when just going into a shop for a moment or two

• Don't leave belongings in your car - A thief won't know that a bag or coat doesn't contain something valuable and might break a window to get at it. Never leave things on display - lock them in the boot

• Sat navs are very desirable to the thief. Always remove them and take them with you. Remove the bracket and wipe away the tell tale suction mark from the windscreen

• Security mark your stereo and, if it's removable, always take it with you. Make a note of the serial number and keep it in a safe place

• Don't leave credit cards or cheque books in the glove compartment

• If you have high value wheels fit lockable wheel nuts and fuel cap. Fit an anti -theft device - and use it every time you park.

• If you have an alarm turn it on every time you park.

• Never leave your vehicle documents in the car - they could help a thief to sell it.

• Remove the ignition key and engage the steering lock - even when leaving the vehicle for a short time such as to pay for petrol.

• Always try to park in a well lit, open location.

• Have the car's registration number etched on all glass surfaces - windows, headlamps, and sunroof - Thieves don't want the expense of replacement.

There are many types of car security devices on the market - from steering wheel and clutch pedal locks to sophisticated electronic protection. Check whether it is Sold Secure approved, before you buy. www.soldsecure.com

In some student accommodation there may be restrictions on bringing and parking cars near where you live.

Motorbikes and Scooters

Motorcycles are a target for both opportunist and professional thieves, who steal bikes for resale, or for the market in motorcycle parts. Take the same measures for parking as with cars.

• Always lock your bike and set its alarm if it has one.
  
• Think about where you park - try to park where there are lots of people passing, good lighting and CCTV.
  
• Always put the steering lock on.  Whenever possible use a steel cable, padlock or D-lock to attach it to an immovable object or another motorcycle.
  
• Try to use designated motorcycle parking places with a stand and security loop.
  
• If you’re leaving your bike for some time, try to lock it to something secure. At home secure it to a ground anchor if you leave it in your garage or shed.
  
• Use a motorbike cover.
  
• Have the motorbike marked with its vehicle identification number (VIN).
  
• When purchasing security devices, make sure that all devices are either Thatcham or Sold Secure approved, as these meet the highest standards.
  
• Don't leave items such as helmets or other possessions with your bike. 
  
• If you're buying a second hand bike or parts, be wary of 'bargains'. Have a good look at the registration documents and check the bike's history with HPI Group Ltd, Carwatch UK Ltd., the AA or the RAC.
  
• If you ride an off-road bike, ask the DVLA to register its details (frame and engine numbers).

For any further advice / property marking please contact your local SCT, details on the Welcome page.