Attention college students: tens of thousands of you across Alabama – and across the country – are preparing to leave campus to return home for the holidays, or to travel with friends or family during the long school break.

But before you close the door at your dorm or off-campus apartment, take a moment to consider some important tips than can help keep your personal property safe over the holidays, save energy, and possibly save you money.

On-Campus Students:

• Shut down laptop and desktop computers. If your computers, speakers, chargers and other devices are on the same power strip, turn the strip off after shutting down.
• Unplug copiers, printers, scanners, fax machines and other equipment. Most office equipment uses electricity even when turned off.
• Unplug appliances, such as microwaves, coffee makers, radios and televisions. As with office equipment, many appliances draw electricity when turned off.
• Shut blinds and curtains so that you don’t advertise belongings to potential thieves.
• Take valuables with you when possible. Cover and hide those that remain, including computers and office equipment, televisions, music systems, jewelry, etc.
• Call in any maintenance issues to the school’s maintenance or housekeeping office.
• Turn off as much lighting as possible.
• Check windows to ensure they are tightly closed and locked.
• Check faucets to ensure they are turned off and not dripping.

Off-Campus Students:

• Follow instructions above, except concerning lights and windows. In your case, set lights on automatic timers, or leave an indoor and outdoor light on. Lights are a proven deterrent to crime.
• Leave blinds and curtains in normal positions.
• Stop your mail delivery.
• Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your property, and leave a key with a trusted neighbor in case of emergency. If possible, have a neighbor park a car in your driveway or parking area occasionally.
• Do not leave keys in mailboxes, in planters, or under doormats.
• Do not leave notes on doors, or messages on answering machines, indicating that you are away.

Students staying at school over the holidays:

Students remaining at school during the break should be mindful that the campus population is greatly reduced. Here are a few safety tips for you:

• Travel in well-lit and populated areas, and walk with others whenever possible.
• Do not display cash, credit cards or electronic devices in open areas.
• While walking, do not text, talk on the phone, or use ear buds. These activities are distracting and will isolate you from your environment.
• Always trust your instincts. If you feel insecure or in danger, or are suspicious of any activity, seek help.
• Program the number for your campus police into your phone.