Lincolnshire Police have urged students who are staying in private accommodation and shared houses to lock their doors and windows when they are not in their dwelling.
The advice was released by the police following the theft of a laptop that was taken from the ground-floor bedroom of a student house in Lincoln, on Wednesday, October 3rd.
It’s thought that an offender reached in through an unlocked window and stole the laptop from the top of a bed in the room.
A police spokesman told The Linc: “Most years we see a spike in burglaries as new students, who may be living away from home for the first time, move into the city.
“It sounds a bit patronising, but we’re all capable of leaving doors and windows open. Overall, about 25 per cent of burglaries are a direct result of this. So please make sure your doors and windows are locked at night and when you go out.”
Further advice was offered to those with bedrooms on the ground floor: “It’s not a great idea to have your desk and laptop or computer in the window where it is easily visible from the road. Shut the curtains when you are out and leave the light on so it looks like someone is at home.
“If you’re worried about the bills and the environment, buy cheap timer switches for your lights from a DIY shop. If you’re not going to be at home, set them to come on about 4pm, when it starts to get dark.”
Lincolnshire Police also gave advice for avoiding any burglary, whether you’re a student or not: “Remove all valuables from plain view. If they can’t see it, they can’t take it. Keep them safe.
“Keep spare keys safe and out of sight. Would-be offenders could not only break into your property, but could also steal your car.”
They added: “Visible burglar alarms, good lighting and carefully directed security lighting can put a burglar off. Remember, less darks spots means less hiding places for someone not wishing to be seen.”