Theft prevention

Every year, dozens of people have their property stolen on campus. Libraries, work, study and leisure areas are all potential targets for theft. Read the following tips to help stop you become a victim of theft.

• In libraries
• Office and study areas
• Bicycles
• Cars
• Property identification
• Report thefts

In libraries

Did you know that around 80% of all RMIT thefts occur in the Library? Thieves tend to target laptop computers, mobile phones and wallets. Observe the below suggestions to minimise your chances of becoming a victim of theft.

• Where possible, study with other students. Property can then be monitored during trips to the bookshelves, etc.
• Put your bag loops through your chair leg/castor or even your own legs. Thieves can be remarkably adept at extracting bags from beneath tables and individual study stations without the victim noticing.
• Do not leave your bag unattended, even for only a few moments. If you need a study or bathroom break, always take your possessions with you.
• If you must catnap, hold your bag tightly.
• If someone is acting suspiciously, notify a library staff member immediately.

Office and study areas

• If you leave your office unattended, lock it. People often don’t lock up when they only intend to be away for a few minutes. They then get distracted, take longer than intended and return to their office to find that property has been stolen.
• Do not rely on others to lock the door when they leave.
• Secure computers, etc, with locking devices.
• Lock valuable items away. Don’t “hide” them behind filing cabinets etc. (Guess where thieves look first)

Bicycles

• If you own an expensive bike, consider leaving it safely at home and buying a cheaper model for university.
• On RMIT’s City campus, a secure bicycle enclosure in available in the Building 51 garage. Building 51 is located at 80-92 Victoria Street, Carlton.
• Use a “D” type lock. It is not foolproof, but much better than using a cheap chain device which is not much more effective than tying your bike up with string. Cable locks can be used to lock both the frame and the wheels together.
• Remove the front wheel, etc, so that you can secure all parts together.

Cars

• Lock all doors and wind up windows.
• Install an anti-theft device, eg. an alarm, fuel/ ignition cut-out switch, visible locking device or battery isolator.
• Take valuables with you or lock them in the boot or glove box. Lock them away before arriving at the parking area.

Property identification

You stand a better chance getting stolen property back if you can identify it.

• Keep model and serial numbers.
• Your local police station can help you to mark your bike.
• Take photos of your property.

Report thefts

Reports can lead to arrests. Contact RMIT Security on 9925 3333 to report a theft.