“We do get reports when students return of items stolen (from dorm rooms,)” MSU police Sgt. Florene McGlothian-Taylor said. “Not as much as Christmas break because spring break is shorter, but it does still happen.”

McGlothian-Taylor said students should double check that doors are locked and rooms are secure before leaving for spring break, including making sure that windows are secure within residence halls and apartments on campus.

She recommended that students take all valuables with them when departing.

“Make sure that your doors are locked and that you talk to your suitemates to make sure they are locking their doors before they leave, too.” McGlothian-Taylor said.

East Lansing police Capt. Kim Johnson said off-campus housing has a fair share of break-ins during spring
break, even though the city is pretty quiet with the absence of students.

“(Students) should lock their doors and keep a few lights on a timer,” Johnson said. “Anything you can do to make the house or apartment look like it’s being lived in.”

Johnson recommended asking a neighbor who’s staying in town during break to keep an eye on students’ residences and make sure no suspicious activity occurs. He suggested keeping valuables out of sight at a neighbor’s house.

“In any case, (students) should reduce the opportunities for people that steal and people that commit crimes,” Johnson said.

Advertising junior Leah Cranston said she is not
taking any chances with theft or break-ins in her off-campus apartment during spring break.

“I am taking all of my valuables home with me
and shutting the blinds,” Cranston said. “My apartment has pretty heavy-duty locks that can only be opened electronically, so I don’t think anyone will be able to break in.”