One of the busiest travel times of the entire year is here and the police department at the University of Central Florida is reminding students to stay safe in their travels and activities.

UCF Police Chief Richard Beary sent a message to all students with several helpful tips to ensure a safe holiday break.

“With Thanksgiving this week and the holiday season around the corner, the UCF Police Department reminds you to keep your safety in mind.

If you will be away from home during the holidays, be sure to make the space look lived in. Take expensive items such as jewelry, laptops and tablets with you. If you’re driving, any valuables should be locked in your trunk when you leave your home, not when you get to your destination.

Have a friend or trusted neighbor collect any mail, packages or newspapers, or ask the U.S. Postal Service to hold your mail until you return.

The holidays are a busy travel time, and it’s important to be safe on the road. Always wear a seat belt, and never drink and drive or get in a car with a driver who is impaired. Elect a sober driver before you go out, or plan on taking a taxi.

UCF Police will continue to patrol campus during the holiday season, and local law enforcement will pay special attention to residential areas and shopping centers.

Ultimately, safety is a team effort, and crime awareness and the reporting of suspicious activity lessen the chances of crime occurring.

I wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving and a safe and successful finish to the fall semester.”