Heading home for the holidays? Secure your home before you go

As you get ready to head home for the break, check out our essential tips to help keep your place and belongings safe while you’re away.

Start by double-checking that all your doors and windows are properly closed and locked - even the ones upstairs! Ground floor windows and doors, or any with easy access from outside, should be your top priority. If you’re unsure about how secure your locks are, speak to your landlord about getting them upgraded. 

Free alarms! 

For an extra piece of mind, you can pick up free window and door alarms from the Community Safety Hub at North Lodge on main campus.  

Taking your valuables home with you is the best option to ensure their safety, but if this isn’t possible, then store them out of sight in a locked cupboard or drawer. It’s also a good idea to mark your items with a sticker or note down their serial numbers (like laptops, speakers). This can help if anything goes missing. You might also want to consider getting contents insurance in case anything needs replacing.  

Need safety advice? 

Speak to our friendly Community Safety Team for help and safety support. Pop into the Community Safety Hub, by the North Gate anytime Monday to Friday, 10:00 to 16:00. Just note they’ll be closed from 16:00 on Monday 22 December 2025 and will reopen on Friday 2 January 2026 at 10:00. 

For urgent security issues during the break, contact Security Services (0121 414 4444).