Students from the University of Nottingham have joined forces with local police in a bid to bring down burglars’ attacks in the Lenton area, where the majority of students reside, the Nottingham Post reports. Latest figures reveal that their effort has been successful, as the number of burglaries dropped from 74 to 65 in 12 months.

Student houses are a favourite target for burglars, because of the abundance of technology items that students typically own and store at home, such as laptops and tablets.

In an attempt to protect their possessions, about 20 students started a collaboration with the Canning Circus Police Station to carry out a campaign, called Love Your Stuff, that aims to promote safety and reduce burglary and theft rates in areas like Lenton, the Arboretum and Radford. Students patrol the area, giving advice on crime prevention.

According to Sergeant Alex Cooney at the Canning Circus police station, a number of simple steps can prove very effective to prevent crime. He advises students to open the curtains during the day, to keep expensive items out of sight, to avoid walking home alone during the dark part of the day and to stick to familiar and well-lit routes.

Remembering to lock doors and windows is another key factor to prevent burglaries, as raiders who see an open window will usually take the chance to break in. Double checking that the burglar alarm is on is something that students need to do every time they leave the premises, as it can save them a lot of trouble, Sergeant Cooney adds.

Police in Burton have issued warnings to local residents to protect their property from burglars after a recent series of break-ins in which homes, garages and sheds have been attacked, the Burton Mail reports.

Burglaries were registered in Burton, Stapenhill and Stretton, with thieves managing to make off with bikes, electrical devices and tools. A burglar with a crowbar also targeted the Riverside Hotel in Branston, but fled the scene after he was caught by the hotel manager.

According to Sergeant Gary Sargent from the local force, the police are currently investigating but people should be informed about steps they can take to protect their possessions. He reminds residents to lock their doors and windows but also to make sure garden gates and sheds are secured. The house should be secured, even if there are people in, as burglars can try to break in while homeowners are watching TV.

If a car has to be parked on the driveway, it also needs to be locked, with the keys kept in a safe place. It is not wise to keep the car keys by the front door, Sargent tells the Burton Mail. Here at Safe Options, we would recommend Key Storage Cabinets. Bicycles should be kept in a shed or a garage, too.

Local officers can also provide advice and assistance to residents, who are encouraged to call the police if they notice anything suspicious.