The West Virginia University Police Department is providing important information to help students stay safe during spring break March 22-30.

While college students are preparing for this well-deserved spring break, police departments at many resort areas are also busy preparing,said Lt. Randy Friend, crime prevention officer.Criminal arrests, citations, incidents of sexual assault, simple assault and other crimes typically show an increase in many resort areas during this time.

WVU police offer the following safety tips:

• Research your spring break destination. Find out as much as you can about potential safety or security risks. An online search can provide a wealth of safety information, and it is also of great benefit to know about recent crime trends and local laws in the area of your destination, especially if you will be traveling outside of the United States.

• Check out the location of your hotel or motel, and contact the local police department. This is also a good time to find out if the local police use the 911 system or if there is another phone number that you should program into your cell phone in case of an emergency.

• Be sure the place where you will be staying is in a safe location and that the facility has security features such as key card locks, deadbolt locks and a viewer in the door. Inquire with the travel agency or reservations desk at the facility where you will be staying, and ask a few questions: Are there in-house security or police officers who patrol the facility and parking lots at night? Have there been any past problems, thefts or other crimes? You may not get the full story over the phone, so upon arrival at your destination, continue your inquiry and ask housekeeping/gift shop employees or locals about areas to avoid.

• Confirm your reservation before leaving town, and let your parents know exactly how and where to reach you. It is also a good idea to provide a few cell phone numbers of traveling companions in case there is a problem with your cell phone or if your parents have trouble contacting you in an emergency.

• Know your travel companions well. Travel in numbers, and always stay together. Dont let friends wander alone or leave with people outside your group.

• Don’t set a drink where something could be placed in it, and dont accept drinks from others. If you suspect that something may have been slipped into your drink, immediately alert your friends and call the police.

• Don’t get involved in any type of activity that might jeopardize your safety. You can avoid accidents if you take time now to realize that certain activities are risky, and the potential for accidents and serious injury increases when too much alcohol is consumed.

• Protect yourself and your property. Never exhibit any large amount of cash. Dont keep your cash and credit cards in one case, wallet or location, and always make sure to lock your vehicle and hotel room.

• Before leaving for break, unplug unnecessary appliances and other electronic devices, and make sure your room or apartment is secure. Its also a good idea to leave your outside lights on, and a few interior lights as well. If you live off campus, you may want to consider temporarily storing small valuables in the trunk of your car if you arent using your vehicle while on break. Thefts from apartments occur much more frequently than thefts from locked car trunks during spring break.

• Wear your seat belt, turn on your headlights (even in the daylight) and follow speed limits and traffic laws. Always allow yourself a safety cushion between your vehicle and the vehicles around you.

• Dont drink and drive. Get sufficient rest before traveling, and always drive safely.

For more information, contact the WVU Police Department at 304-293-3136.