Take Our Advice ...

As the holiday season sweeps people up in its whirlwind of lights, crowds and merrymaking, U.Va. employees should maintain security and crime prevention awareness.

“We have no evidence that thefts occur more often over winter break,” said U.Va. Police Sgt. Melissa Fielding. “The opportunity for crimes to occur is greater, however, because there are fewer people in the area — thus fewer eyes and ears to detect criminal behavior.”

Several measures can help ensure security on Grounds, in offices and other areas over the winter break — or any day:

• Make sure that doors, windows, desk and file drawers are locked.

• Report and have repaired broken windows and doors that don’t lock properly.

• Be discreet — don’t advertise your holiday plans or those of your co-workers to people visiting or calling the office.

• Unplug appliances and turn off computers.

• When skeleton crews are working, keep valuables in sight or locked up.

• Know who’s in the building or area, and let others know when you are coming and going.