Students, faculty and staff urged to secure living and work spaces for holiday closures

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With everyone focused on the upcoming holidays, Virginia Commonwealth University Police want to remind the VCU community to secure spaces and valuables before leaving campus for long stretches of time.

VCU Police officers will patrol both Richmond campuses 24/7 even when the university closes, but the department asks that people think about safety during the busy holiday season.

“During holidays, exams or end-of-semester rushes, crime prevention is not always first on our minds, but it is essential that everyone take steps to protect their property,” said VCU Police Officer Matthew Ruland. “We can’t take away someone’s desire or ability to steal, but if we remove the opportunity, the chance of a theft occurring is greatly diminished.”

For starters, those leaving offices, residence halls, houses or apartments are advised to double-check that doors and windows are locked. Officers advise everyone to take valuable property home, but for those who plan on leaving valuables, such as electronics, in an office or residence, they should secure items in a locked closet or cabinet.

“Students are encouraged to communicate with their roommates about vacation schedules and who will be home when others are gone,” Ruland said. “Knowing who will be home or not can help them prepare for breaks.”

Anyone leaving a vehicle or bike on campus should park it in a well-lit, legal spot. Bikes should be locked with U-locks and vehicles should be cleared of all valuables.

Students, faculty and staff are also advised to unplug appliances, including computers, but should keep heat settings above 50 degrees to avoid freezing temperatures. (Freezing temperatures may lead to pipes bursting.)

Those staying on campus are advised to call VCU Police at (804) 828-1234 or use the LiveSafe app to report any suspicious activity. A full list of holiday safety tips is available on the VCU Police website.

 

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