Once you have selected a place to live off-campus, take a few minutes to review the following suggestions that will help you keep your home secure. Safety is based on awareness and personal responsibility. If you are living with other people, it is important that everyone play an equal role in creating a consistent safe and secure environment. Here are some personal safety tips:
- Leave a light on when you are gone, or purchase a utility timer that can turn lights off and on automatically.
- Test smoke detectors every month.
- Purchase renter's insurance, it's generally inexpensive and may save you money if there is an accident or a burglary.
- If you have boxes and/or packaging from flat screen TVs, stereo systems, computers and other valuable items that needs to be recycled/disposed of, do not just leave it out on the curb...this is an invitation to potential thieves that you have something worth stealing. Break down boxes and take them to the local recycling center and take trash to a dumpster.
- Keep emergency numbers in an accessible location for all of the tenants.
- Know your roommates' security habits. You are only as safe as your roommates allow you to be.
- Don't advertise your class and work schedules.
- Always keep doors and windows locked. Pay particular attention to this if you live on the ground floor.
- Be aware of all visitors to your home.
- Ask to see a company ID when utility or service people come to your door.
- Use a peephole to determine who is knocking before you open the door. If you are still not sure who is there, question the stranger through the door.
- If necessary, get a security system.
- Keep the blinds or drapes closed when you are gone
- Secure your electronic items when you are going to be out of town.
- If you lose your keys, work with your landlord to replace your locks immediately.
- Don't put ID tags on your key ring.
- Have someone check on your place when you are out of town.
- Get to know your neighbors and the area in which your home is located.
- Do not walk alone after dark. Contact a friend who can take you where you need to go,
- Never leave your key outside under a mat or in a place accessible to a stranger.
- Never leave notes on your door or messages on your answering machine that indicates you are away.
- Keep bushes, shrubs, and trees trimmed back so they do not block windows or obscure sight lines.
- For emergencies, dial 9-1-1. This will connect you with emergency responders for your municipality.
Fire Safety Tips
Visit http://www.firesafety.gov/citizens/firesafety/college.shtm for a comprehensive fire safty plan for college students
- Make sure smoke detectors are installed and are in working order (test the batteries when you move in)
- Make sure your residence has a fire extinguisher
- Actively identify potential fire hazards (i.e. frayed electrical wiring) and have them fixed, replaced or removed immediately
- Create and discuss an escape plan in the event of a fire
- Be sure not to overload electrical outlets and use extension cords properly
- Learn to use and properly maintain cooking appliances
- If you live in an aptartment or multi-level housing structure, be sure you educate yourself and your roommates on the proper escape route for your building and floor
Escape Plans
Visit http://www.firesafety.gov/citizens/escape/index.shtm for comprehensive fire escape planning
- Practice escape plans every month.
- Plan two ways out of each room.
- Immediately leave your home when a fire occurs.
- Never open doors that are hot to the touch.
- Designate a meeting location away from your home.
- Once you're out, stay out!
Local Police Departments
