Apartment Safety Tips

    • 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 an emergency plan and an emergency kit including a flash light, battery operated radio and first aid kit.
    • 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.