Carrier said this is new for their housing community. Pheasant Run is trying to take a more pro-active stance and make residents aware of how they need to be cautious about unlocked doors. Pheasant Run also might try to set up a “student watch,” and programs to teach residents about personal and home safety.

Kevin Williams, general manager of LB&J Limited, which owns Stone Gate, South View and The Commons, also said that break-ins tend to increase while students are away for an extended period of time. However, Stone Gate, South View and The Commons distribute flyers and pamphlets on numerous occasions reminding residents to lock doors and secure valuables.

“If you’re going to have people over, you should control who and who does not come,” Wiliams said. Unfamiliar people in an apartment could potentially increase the risk of items being stolen. Williams also emphasized the importance of marking valuables so they are easily identifiable, because the chance of them being stolen will then decrease. “If things are marked fairly clearly, they won’t want to take them,” Williams said.

Renter’s insurance was highly encouraged by both housing complexes when stolen items are not covered under a parent/guardian’s homeowner’s insurance. The break-ins are under investigation.