An operation to prevent burglaries within student accommodation is under way in Bradford. The City Centre Neighbourhood Policing Team is helping students to stay safe this winter by undertaking a series of visual audits.
It sees officers working alongside representatives from the University of Bradford to check the security of their properties.
NPT Inspector Kevin Pickles says the work is designed to prevent them from becoming a victim:
“Together with the university, we will be undertaking door to door checks in student neighbourhoods, identifying those which need to improve their security.
“In particular, we will be looking for any features of their property which could make them an easy target. This could be anything from insecure out-buildings, vehicle security, lighting and overgrown shrubbery.
“When we visit the student homes, we will be offering crime prevention packs and handing out ultra violet property marking pens.
“It will also be an opportunity for the students themselves to raise any concerns or ask any questions of their local officers. If we pick out a problem area in their property, we will highlight the simple ways in which they can rectify the issue.
"Student households often have a number of occupants which can sometimes mean people coming and going at all times. This increases the chance of properties being left insecure and is a point we will be underlining to the students we visit.
"Burglary can be preventable and I would ask student householders to be vigilant and follow a few basic security precautions. Whenever you leave your accommodation, always lock the door behind you. It is important that landlords also take responsibility in securing the properties effectively with good quality doors and locks.
"Even when you are in, it is important to keep the doors locked. Burglaries do occur where offenders sneak into an insecure property, remove car keys and then take your vehicle.
"It is good practice to get into the habit of removing your keys and putting them somewhere secure, but in a place that you can easily access should you need to leave the house in an emergency.”
Becka Currant, Dean of Students at the University of Bradford, said: "We are pleased to be working closely with the Neighbourhood Policing Team to raise awareness of security. This week marks the start of the University’s safety campaign, where we will be issuing advice on how to stay safe as the winter nights draw in.
"We are also working hand in hand with the Students’ Union, to provide the best possible advice and support to our students. Any student who would like to discuss any concerns or receive advice can visit the Advice Centre in the Student Central building."
Nancy Quadri, Women’s Officer at the University of Bradford Students’ Union, said: "We hope our ‘stop the burglar campaign’, which involves the students from the College and University in conjunction with the Police, will make a significant impact in educating our students and residents in taking the necessary precautions to avoid being victims of burglary."
