If you think someone has been in your home

Coming home to signs of a break-in is frightening, and living alone can make it feel worse. Knowing the steps in advance helps you stay safe, protect evidence and get your life back in order.

First: stay safe

• If you think intruders may still be inside, do not go in. Call 999 (East Cambridgeshire District Council). In the UAE, police are also 999 (u.ae).
• Wait somewhere safe, such as with a neighbour, at reception or in a busy public place.
• Do not touch the door, lock or anything inside more than you need to. Independent Age advises asking the police what you can tidy or repair, because a crime scene investigator may need to examine it first.

Reporting it

• In the UK, if the burglary has already happened and nobody is there, report it online or call 101, the police non-emergency number (East Cambridgeshire District Council).
• Officers will record your statement and a list of what was taken, may examine the scene for forensic evidence, and can advise on security (East Cambridgeshire District Council).
• You will get a crime reference number. Independent Age notes you will need it for any insurance claim.
• In Dubai, Gulf News reports that 901 is Dubai Police's number for non-emergency matters, and 999 is for emergencies. If you are unsure or feel in danger, call 999.

The next 24 hours: a checklist

• Check whether spare house or car keys are missing. If they are, change the locks, because burglars may come back with them (Independent Age).
• Get broken locks and windows fixed. In a rented home, tell your landlord or accommodation office straight away in writing.
• Make a list of what is missing, including serial numbers if you have them (Independent Age).
• Contact your bank or card issuer if cards were taken (Independent Age).
• Check identity documents. If your passport or other ID is missing, report and replace it (Independent Age; see the Paperwork module for passports abroad).
• Contact your insurer if you have contents insurance (see the Money Basics insurance lessons).

Your accounts and devices

• If a laptop or phone was stolen, use your 'find my device' service to lock or erase it, and change passwords for important accounts, starting with email.
• Tell your university IT service if a device with university access was taken.
• Watch your bank statements over the following weeks for any payments you do not recognise.

Looking after yourself afterwards

• Victim Support says people often feel upset, angry or scared after a burglary, and some no longer feel safe at home. Some people react later rather than straight away.
• Victim Support stresses that it is never your fault.
• Talk to a trusted adult, family member or friend, and ask a friend to stay over for a night or two if that helps.
• Victim Support's help does not depend on reporting the crime to the police. In the UK, under-19s can also call Childline free on 0800 1111, and The Mix offers support for under-25s.
• If anxiety or poor sleep goes on for weeks, speak to your university wellbeing service or a doctor (see the Mental Health module).