This weekend, four break-ins were reported to the Charleston Police Department within the same area.

These break-ins are under investigation; however, with students being gone for Fall Break, this is not a rare occurrence.

When residences are left unattended for extended amounts of time this tends to happen, said Lt. Brad Oyer, of the Charleston Police Department.

“Especially over Thanksgiving and Christmas Break, people are more prone to steal others’ belongings,” Oyer said.

While the students may not be present during these break-ins, there are still things students can do to avoid losing belongings.

“DVDs, change jars, video games and computers should be taken home with the student,” Oyer said. “These are the things that are stolen most often.”

Potential robbers are not looking to steal heavy, obvious items such as couches or chairs, but things they can walk out with quickly.

Even taking these items will take a few extra trips to the car when the student is leaving, it will save headache and money in the long run.

Oyer also warned students to remove valuable items from their automobiles when they are not in use.

“It is too tempting for some people when they can see something of value through the window,” Oyer said.

When students leave for a weekend or extended break it is also important they make sure to keep doors and windows locked, Oyer said.

“Even when you are at home or in the area it is smart to lock your house,” Oyer said.

Besides simply locking doors and windows it is also important to secure sliding glass doors.

“Depending on the style of the door, use a stick as well use the locking mechanism,” Oyer said.

Even if a student lives on the second floor of a building, securing the balcony is essential to keep the residence safe.

“We have seen instances where someone has climbed up patios to get into upper floor apartments,” Oyer said.

However, other areas besides unlocked doors of a residence can be seen as entry points for potential robbers.

Air conditioning units can be taken out from the outside of the residence; the individual then has access to an open window.

“If the air conditioning unit is not being used, take it out for the winter,” Oyer said. “It is very possible to take out an air conditioning unit and go right in the window.”

After asking a landlord, the air conditioning window unit can be taken out if the residence of the house will not be home for a few days.

While students are on extended breaks the police department has more foot patrol officers on duty around student housing than would be during regular class schedules.

Kayleigh Zyskowski can be reached at 581-7942 or [email protected]