By: Officer Jeff Kirchman
The holiday break is a time for students to unwind, recharge, and spend quality time with family and friends. However, as you prepare to leave your belongings behind, it’s crucial to ensure that your personal property remains safe and secure. Here are some valuable tips to safeguard your stuff over the holiday break.
- Inventory and Document Your Belongings
Before leaving for the holidays, create an inventory of your possessions. Take photographs or make a video recording of your room and its contents, highlighting valuable items such as electronics, jewelry, and important documents. This documentation can serve as crucial evidence in case of theft or damage and help you with any insurance claims. - Secure Valuables in a Safe or Locked Storage
If your residence hall provides a safe or lockable storage unit, utilize it to secure your most valuable possessions. Items like laptops, passports, and expensive gadgets should be stored in these secure locations to add an extra layer of protection against potential theft. - Inform Roommates and Neighbors
Communication is key. Inform your roommates and neighbors about your plans for the holiday break and encourage open dialogue regarding security measures. Establishing a sense of community awareness can lead to a more vigilant environment where everyone looks out for each other’s belongings. - Unplug Electronics and Appliances
To minimize the risk of fire hazards and reduce energy consumption, unplug all non-essential electronics and appliances before leaving. This not only saves energy but also decreases the chances of electrical malfunctions that could lead to damage while you are away. - Set Up Timers for Lights
Create the illusion that your room is occupied by using timers for lights. This simple trick can deter potential intruders, as a well-lit space is less likely to be targeted. Timers can be programmed to turn on and off at different times, mimicking your regular patterns. - Lock Doors and Windows
Before leaving, double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked. This may seem like an obvious step, but it’s often overlooked. Ensure that all entry points are properly sealed to prevent unauthorized access. - Consider Renters Insurance
If you don’t already have renters insurance, now might be the time to invest in it. Renters insurance can provide coverage for your personal property in case of theft, fire, damage, or other unexpected events. It offers financial protection and peace of mind during your absence. - Remove Attractive Displays
If your room’s interior is visible from the hallway or outside, consider rearranging or covering valuable items to make them less tempting to potential thieves. Out of sight often means out of mind when it comes to safeguarding your belongings. - Stay Connected with UWPD
Familiarize yourself with campus security protocols and emergency contact information. Reach out to UWPD’s non-emergency number at (608) 264-2677 with questions or concerns. You can also communicate with UWPD via the BadgerSAFE app, or through our website. Staying connected with UWPD and/or University Housing can help mitigate risks and ensure a swift response if needed. - Trustworthy House Sitter or Neighbor
If possible, ask a trustworthy friend, neighbor, or fellow resident to keep an eye on your room. They can report any suspicious activities and act as an additional layer of protection during your absence.
By following these tips (and others from our website), you can significantly reduce the risks associated with leaving your room unattended during the holiday break. Taking these proactive measures will not only safeguard your personal property but also contribute to a more secure and harmonious living environment for everyone in the university community.