Winter Break and Holiday Crime Prevention Tips

The Cal Poly Police Department wishes each student, staff and faculty member a safe and restful holiday season. As you enjoy the winter break much of the campus will become vacant and this is unfortunately also a time of increased theft on campus. To make the best of your upcoming break, whether residing on or off campus, we have prepared these tips to aide you while away and to help protect our campus.

First and foremost, the vast majority of property crimes on campus are from unlocked offices and buildings. Before leaving for the break lock your office and office building and do not leave valuables behind.

Burglary is a crime of opportunity.

• Burglars aim for the easiest targets.
• Thieves generally enter through an unlocked door or window. Make sure to lock doors and windows, especially if you are leaving campus for the entire break or extended times.
• Most burglars will give up and move on if they cannot get in quickly.
• Most auto burglaries occur when valuable items are visible and the car is unlocked.
• Secure valuables that you cannot take with you out of sight in your room/apartment/home.
• Unplug appliances before you leave.

If you are leaving for the break:

• Make sure you lock your room and office doors.
• Take portable electronics such as tablets and laptops home with you.
• Use electronic timers for your interior lights, stereos, or televisions while you are away. This would give the illusion that someone is at home.
• Avoid leaving your vehicle packed overnight with your luggage and other personal items.
• If you leave a bicycle on campus be sure it is properly secured with a quality lock.
• If living off campus and leaving home for an extended time, have a trusted friend watch your house and have newspaper and mail delivery suspended.

If you are staying for the break:

• Do not let anyone you do not know into your building. Avoid piggybacking as much as possible.
• Do not leave doors propped open, especially exterior doors.
• Avoid leaving valuable property in plain view inside your vehicle or unlocked in your room or office.
• If you see something suspicious, say something. Report suspicious persons or activity immediately to the police at 805–756–2281 or 911 in emergencies

During This Time Also Be Aware of Charity Scams
Many good-willed individuals express their generosity by giving to those less fortunate. As such, the winter months also present the opportunity for scam artists to take advantage of the kindness and compassion of others. When giving, remember to use your head, as well as your heart. The Better Business Bureau offers additional information about what to avoid. To learn more, visit https://www.bbb.org/holidayscams/.