General Tips:

• Keep your doors locked.  This is a good practice even if you are at home.
• Do not prop open outside security doors.
• If you experience any problems with apartment or building locks, contact your landlord immediately.
• Keep your house keys in a secure place.  Do not lend your keys to others.
• Have your keys ready before getting to your front door.
• Consider using a timer on a lamp(s) in your home so that you do not come home at night to a dark house and it also looks as if someone is home if you are away for the weekend or on vacation.
• Do not open the door to your home to strangers.  If your door has a peephole, use it!
• Apartment windows should remain closed when you are not at home, especially if your unit is located on the ground floor.  Also, it is not recommended that windows be left open at night when you are sleeping.
• It is HIGHLY recommended, that individuals consider obtaining renters insurance.  This coverage is usually available at a fairly low cost and can protect you against loss of your belongings.  You may also want to check with your parent’s homeowner’s policy.  Sometimes, it can be attached to an existing policy.
• If your neighborhood or housing complex has security patrols, find out their schedule and the best way to reach them in case of an emergency.

Safe Housing:

• Do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords.  Also, make sure that your appliances do not have exposed wiring.
• Smoke detectors must be installed. On a regular basis (at least twice a year), change batteries to keep them fresh.
• It is recommended that every household have at least one fire extinguisher and that tenants are familiar with the correct way to use it in case of an emergency.
• Become familiar with the emergency exit routes you can use from your home. 
• Bedrooms must have one window large enough for an adult to easily crawl through in case of emergency.
• If any security features in your home are malfunctioning, such as gas appliances, security lighting, etc., report the issues to your landlord promptly so they can be repaired.
• Report suspicious activities to the proper authorities.  

IF IN DOUBT, AND YOU CANNOT REACH US, CALL 911!! 

Personal Safety:

• Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you, especially if you are alone or it is dark.
• Whenever possible, travel with a friend.
• Be aware of locations and situations such as alleys or dark parking lots which would make you vulnerable to crime.
• Educate yourself concerning prevention tactics.
• Be aware of security lighting, etc.  If it is not working, report it as soon as possible.