The Home Office states that young people aged 16-24 are three times more likely to be victims of crime, and one in three students find themselves as a victim of crime each year. Students own more expensive consumer goods per head than the rest of the population, with student insurer Endsleigh estimating that the average student owns £6,000 worth of belongings. Don’t become another statistic! By taking a few basic precautions, you can ensure you don’t become a victim of mugging, burglary or vehicle related thefts.

· Make sure that you lock windows and doors when you go out, especially if you’re the last person to leave the house, as this is usually how burglars gain entry.

· If you’re living in halls of residence, be careful who you let in to the building or who follows you in. Whenever you leave your room, always make sure you look the door even if you’re only going across the corridor.

· Mark your belongings with your details using a UV pen. If they are stolen and recovered by the police, they can be returned to you.

· Don’t leave keys or valuables on display in your home or in your car, as it may encourage burglars to break entry to obtain them.

· Always be aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re on your own. Don’t flash your mobile phone or iPod about, as it will make you an easy target.

· Never write your PIN number down and shield your PIN when typing it in at a cash machine or at a till.

· Always keep your bag zipped. With girl’s handbags, try to have the zip facing towards you rather than away. That way nobody can get into your bag without you realising.

· Always get a licensed taxi home at night, or travel home with friends. If you insist on walking, ensure you walk in a group and always in sight of other people.

The main way to ensure you are always protected against crime is to take out an insurance policy. Endsleigh Insurance is specifically designed for students, so that everything from your laptop and television to your clothes and watch is covered. By taking out a student insurance policy, you’re even covered for walk in theft (when entry hasn’t been forced), which is a common occurrence within student crime. Take a look at http://www.endsleigh.co.uk/Student/Pages/student-insurance.aspx to see how little a year’s insurance will cost you.