Door and window locks 'essential for student security'

Posted on 30 September 2008

Students moving into university towns should ensure that all doors and windows are fitted with locks and have removed their keys and hidden them from view in order to maximise the security of their belongings, it has been claimed.

According to insurer Legal & General, the recent Crime in England and Wales report for 2007/2008 indicates full-time students are twice as likely to be burgled as those in managerial and professional occupations.

Elaine Parkes, head of technical services at the group, said if students make checks to ensure the property they live in is secure, they can greatly reduce the likelihood of being burgled.

"It is particularly important that students in shared accommodation ensure that all doors, including the internal door to their room has a lock and is locked whenever they leave the room," she added.

Last week, the Nationwide Building Society claimed people starting university this term should speak to landlords about replacing any old or broken locks which may make it easy for thieves to break in.

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