The holiday break is fast approaching and the officers of the West Virginia University Police Department would like to offer students some holiday safety and security tips.

For students living in residence halls:

• Double check to make sure your door is locked before you leave.

• Take small valuables with you, or lock them in your closet.

• Turn off or unplug unnecessary appliances.

• Never leave any valuables unattended.

• If you leave valuables in your vehicle, store them in the trunk or out of sight.

For students living off-campus:

• Be sure all of your windows and doors are locked before you leave.

• Leave an exterior and interior light on to give the appearance that someone may be home.

• Ask a friend to check on your apartment while you are away.

If traveling by car:

• Always wear your seat belt.

• Have your vehicle checked by a mechanic or check your tire tread, tire pressure, oil level, windshield washer fluid, and other fluids before you start.

• Start your trip with a full tank of gas.

• Call your parents/family members to let them know when you are leaving, and when to expect your arrival. If you are delayed for any reasoncall and let them know youll be late.

• Bring sufficient money for gas, and plan to take extra emergency money for unexpected problems.

• If you have car problems, pull well off the roadway, activate the emergency flashers, stay in your car, raise the hood and place a handkerchief or cloth out of the window to alert an officer that you need assistance.

• If someone does stop to help, and you feel uneasy about the personroll your window down far enough to ask them to call the local or state police, or to summon road service for you.

• Respect the speed limits and traffic laws, reduce your vehicles speed to compensate for changing road conditions, and leave your headlights oneven in the daylight.

• Remember that winter road conditions can change quickly and without warning. Road surfaces on bridges tend to freeze more quickly. Avoid aggressive drivers or aggressive driving. Avoid following too closely and try to leave a large safety cushion between your vehicle and those around you.

• Drive safely and have a safe and happy holiday.