U. Police plan for security over break

During spring break University Police will continue its special check program -- which attempts to keep off-campus student housing secure through increased police patrols. "With low occupancy there is a greater opportunity for people to break into apartments and houses," University Police Director of Victim Support Maureen Rush said. "Criminals are very smart people," she said. "They get a feeling of what is happening on campus. "Opportunity is the key to their success," she added. As part of the special break program, students who are leaving for break can register their houses with the University Police. The police will then check the property for any suspicious activity at least once every shift, with a total of about three checks a day. Students interested in registering their properties can pick up forms to sign up for the program at police headquarters at 3914 Locust Walk or at the Victim Support and Special Services office at 3927 Walnut street. University Police will begin monitoring registered properties Friday afternoon, and continue until the morning of Monday, March 13. Rush also pointed out that students remaining at the University can submit forms as well. Over winter break, 44 properties were registered for the program, and slightly more were signed up for Thanksgiving break. In addition to registering their properties, police also recommend that students who leave the area during break secure all doors and windows and remove valuables. As for students remaining on campus, University Police encourage them to stay alert and avoid outdoor automatic teller machines. "Educational awareness is another component," University Police Lt. Susan Holmes said. Rush and Holmes also stressed that many other safety services are provided by the University over the vacation. "There is no spring break for the police," Rush said, adding that University Police officers will maintain regular patrols and staffing. Walking Escort and Escort Service will also continue regular service. "We encourage students to use it," Rush said. In addition, when Escort is not running, student can call University Police for escorts.