More than 3,000 students call Wayne State University home, coming from around the world to live, learn and play on campus. In apartments and residence halls, both on and off campus, here are important steps to keep your home safe.

• Always lock your windows and doors when you are away, even if you are just stepping out for a quick errand. Most burglars are in and out of a house in less than three minutes.

• Do not leave spare keys hidden on your property. Most thieves know all the common spots in which they are hidden.

• Make sure exterior doors are solid-core wood or metal. All exterior doors should be equipped with deadbolt locks that have a minimum bolt throw of one inch.

• If you have a sliding glass door wall, lay a wooden dowel in the track near the bottom of the sliding section to prohibit sliding the door open if the door lock is compromised.

• Leaving the TV on in a dark room is an excellent idea. Leave the volume up, too.

• Make sure that no bushes or trees obscure windows or doors. Overgrown landscaping can provide excellent coverage. If you have basement windows, install glass block windows. They are an excellent, attractive means of securing lower lever windows. Prune bushes at least 18 inches from the ground up.

• Many burglaries occur through second-story windows or patios. Make sure that any trellises or trees do not provide access to upper levels.

• Engrave and list all your valuables. Photos are a good idea to keep in your inventory of property. Video is even better.

When you're away

During spring break or between semesters, it is common to head back home or on vacation. These tips will help you stay safe and keep your home secure while you are away.

• Ask someone you trust to house sit for you while you are gone. Knowing your home is cared for and attended to while traveling provides peace of mind and excellent home security.

• Make sure that your home is locked and all appliances are shut down before leaving for any length of time.

• Time your lights in alternate rooms at various settings. Buy an extra timer and avoid just using one light at the same time, day in and day out. Set the lights in different rooms at overlapping times.

• Lock your garage and sheds.

• Let trusted neighbors know you are going and when you expect to return. Ask them to keep an eye on your home and tend to your mail.

• Leave your family or trusted neighbor the capability to contact you in case of an emergency.

• Avoid leaving your home looking unattended.

• Have arrangements made for trash pickup and lawn care.

• If you need to, have mail and newspaper delivery suspended for the duration of your trip.

• Carry a photocopy of all your identification and credit cards in case you lose something.

• Make sure your accommodations are safe and clean. Use all the security features provided to you.

• Use all door locks in your room. Leave a TV on when you are out of your hotel room. Use the "Do not disturb" sign.

• All reasonable lodging facilities will have a safe in which you can keep extra checks, money or valuables. Use it if needed.

• Report any suspicious persons or activities to the desk personnel and ask them when something will be done about it. Check back to confirm the status.