As you prepare to leave Morgantown for the upcoming holiday break, it’s important to secure your residence and belongings while you are out of town to limit the possibility of burglary or theft.
Crime trends show that criminals target student residencies during extended University breaks because they know you’re likely not home. Follow these safety tips from the WVU Police Department:
- Lock all doors and windows and close blinds or curtains. Check that your vehicle is secured as well.
- Take valuable items with you while you are away, including medications and electronics. If you cannot bring these items with you, lock them in a safe place. Do not leave valuable items in plain sight inside your residence or vehicle. Record serial numbers for electronic items you are unable to travel with, like televisions or gaming consoles.
- Put one or two lights on a timer, and unplug appliances and electronics, including hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons.
- Consider placing a wireless home security camera on your property or inside your residence when you are not present. For vehicles, you may also consider utilizing factory anti-theft devices/programs or purchasing a steering wheel lock, GPS tracker or dash camera.
- Do not leave spare keys in places accessible to others, such as under a doormat.
- If possible, do not leave your bicycle outside for extended periods. UPD encourages bicyclists to utilize their bicycle registration services and conceal a similar GPS tracking device (such as an AirTag) on their bikes, which can help in the event of theft. Bicyclists should also lock their bike to a designated bike rack with a high-quality U-lock, which are harder to cut than traditional cable locks.
- Arrange to have your mail held by the U.S. Postal Service until you return.
- When you return, report any theft or suspicious incidents to the police.
As always, if you see something, say something. Please report suspicious activity to UPD by calling 304-293-COPS (2677) or by using the LiveSafe app, which provides direct, two-way communication with UPD through text, photo, video and audio messaging.
UPD officers will continue the tradition of visiting an area around campus to share important safety information in-person prior to break. Officers will be at and around University Apartments — University Park, University Place, Vandalia Apartments and College Park — starting at 4 p.m. Tuesday (Dec. 16).
If you would like UPD to check in on your residence while you are away, you can call UPD at 304-293-2677.
If you live off-campus, you can request a vacation check from the Morgantown Police Department by calling by calling 304-284-7522 and selecting option 0, or filling out an online request at morgantownpd.com.
To learn more about UPD, visit our website. Download the LiveSafe app and turn on push notifications for direct and discreet two-way communication with police. To receive alerts about emergencies and incidents on or near campus, register for the WVU Safety Notification System.