Consider your proposed apartment in relation to Yale Services that are available in the area (e.g., Does the shuttle travel there?)
Notice locations of Blue Phones going toward building.
Know which streets are well-lit on the route to your apartment.
Notice adjacent properties and whether they are maintained.
Does the outside door to the building close and lock behind you?
Examine the perimeter lighting of the building at night.
Is there an entrance in back (i.e., where you park your car), and is the way to the building door lit well?
Is there an intercom entry system? If not, is there a viewer on the door?
Are there bug screens on the windows?
Check the locking hardware on the main door, any hallway doors, and the front door to the building. Are they all in working order, and do they close behind you?
Talk to tenants in the building. Does the landlord promptly fix things that break?
Look at the overall maintenance of the building. If upkeep is poor, this may be a clue that security is lax.
Are the first-floor hallway and apartment windows protected?
Is there a gap in the door latch that could compromise its effectiveness?
Is there a dead bolt for the door to your apartment and for any other perimeter doors?
Is there a viewer on your front door to determine who is knocking?
If there is a fire escape near your window, is the window protected?
Restrict the possession of house keys. Change locks if keys are stolen or if you move into a previously occupied residence. Do not hide keys outside the residence.
Hide or secure any valuables when you are not at home.
Lock all entrances at night, including any garages or out buildings. Keep the house locked even if you are at home. Ensure locks are working properly.
Develop a plan to quickly evacuate in an emergency, and an emergency kit including a flashlight, battery-operated radio, and first aid kit. Have an evacuation plan in the event your primary door can’t be accessed.
Be alert to public work crews or other individuals requesting access to your home. Check their identities and verify their employee status before allowing entry.
If you are away for an extended period of time, leave a TV or radio on and consider using lights with timers.
Report any unusual or suspicious activity to Yale University Police.
If you have a window unit air conditioner, ensure that proper mounting brackets are installed to secure the unit against easy removal.
If you open your windows for ventilation, consider sliding window locks to prevent the window from being moved up or down from the outside.
