Office of Internal Communications
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December 9, 2004 The holiday season is a time of peace and giving. Unfortunately, it’s also a time for theft and house fires. To help promote a safe winter break, the University of Houston’s Department of Public Safety (UHDPS) has compiled an extensive list of fire and crime prevention tips for faculty, staff and students. “Because people are shopping for gifts, they tend to have more stuff in their cars and homes,” said Robert Wilson, chief of the UH Police Department (UHPD). “Criminals are aware of this, so there is often a higher potential for thefts.” Fires also are a common occurrence during December due to electrical decorations malfunctioning and open flames coming in contact with holiday trees. Joe Tremont, safety specialist for the UHDPS, said that faculty, staff and students should exercise the same caution with office decorations as they would at home. “Before folks leave for the winter break, they should remove all tinsel, trees and other decorations from their office or work space,” he said. Although the campus will be somewhat vacant during the break (Friday, Dec. 24 – Monday, Jan. 3), UHPD will keep a close watch over campus facilities, Wilson said. He still encourages the campus community to lock their offices and make sure all valuables are taken home or safely stored. “Ninety percent of things that are stolen are crimes of opportunity,” Wilson said. “When things are left out, a thief just can’t resist the urge.” Mike Emery
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