STUDENTS and their landlords are being warned to tighten up on security to avoid becoming victims of crime when university term starts again.
Students are one of the highest at-risk groups of crime in the country, often targeted for high value laptops, TVs and entertainment equipment, frequently left in plain view and unsecured against intruders.
As letting out a house or flat to students is a thriving business, the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) is urging landlords to make home security a top priority to ensure that tenants, property and possessions are safe.
Students are also being warned to take simple precautions to prevent their possessions and equipment from being stolen when they move into a new property, or return to their old digs, at the end of September.
The Master Locksmiths Association is encouraging youngsters and their parents to question what locking systems are in place, when they were last replaced and how the copying of keys is controlled.
The organisation advises landlords to consult an MLA-approved locksmith, who will be able to carry out a security assessment on property and recommend suitable locks and fittings, as well as providing input from a safety point of view.
Dr Steffan George, development director of the MLA, said:
“Whether they are going to university for the first time, or returning to study for another year, students will often find themselves in new accommodation. It is important that they are aware of security to keep themselves and their possessions safe as students are often regarded as an easy target by thieves.The MLA has issued the following guidelines to students and landlords:
“By taking simple precautions, landlords and students can avoid many of the risks that can lead to crime and taint the student experience.
“It is landlords’ duty to act in a responsible manner and they should install quality locks with patented keys, which can’t be copied without proof of ownership or restricted keys that can’t be easily copied due to their unique design.”
- Ensure good quality locks are installed on both the main door and the bedroom door. For convenience, the locks can be configured so that each individual bedroom key also opens the front door.
- Inspect doors and windows to make sure appropriate locks are fitted, are in good condition and meet insurance requirements. If unsure, ask a vetted MLA locksmith for advice and a full security assessment.
- Keep valuable items out of sight, away from doors or windows, and remember to lock rooms and the front door when you go out.
- Don’t hide a key under a doormat or flower pot as criminals are aware of this method, particularly in student areas.
- Don’t leave doors open when outside or if friends are going in and out of the property as a thief can take advantage.
- If a room or property is going to be unoccupied for a number of weeks, students should take all valuables with them or make sure they are out of view.
- When entering the property, ensure that nobody ‘tailgates’ you and gains entry.
- Ensure locks are correctly specified regarding egress in homes of multiple occupancy (exit without the use of a key is required in flats, apartments and shared houses with locks on individual bedroom doors).
The Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) was established over 50 years ago to set and promote standards of conduct, practice and materials within locksmithing. The MLA is recognized as the authoritative body for locksmithing by the Police, Home Office and other leading organisations such as the British Standards Institute.
As a not for profit association, the MLA ensure its member companies undergo strict vetting procedures so the public, government and industry receive the appropriate service and advice. MLA members share the ethos that ‘skill and integrity’ remain paramount in locksmithing and are able to provide sound advice based on knowledge and experience.
A list of approved MLA companies can be found on the MLA website. For further information please visit www.locksmiths.co.uk .
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