• Keep your outside doors locked (even when you are home).
  • Don’t advertise your class or work schedule.
  • Never leave a note on the door saying when you will return.
  • Pull shades or drapes after dark.
  • If the property owner won’t replace cheap locks, ask if you can do so at your own expense.
  • Leave some lights on when you are gone.
  • Do not trust chain locks — they are not strong enough to keep out a determined intruder.
  • Keep documentation of serial numbers for all of your valuables.
  • Look outside before opening the door. If you can’t see the area in front of the door, install a magnifying peephole (all you need is a drill and screwdriver).
  • Never let strangers in the door. If it is a repair or service representative, call the property owner or company to ensure they are supposed to be there. Always insist on identification (a PA driver’s license is the best I.D.).
  • Do not allow a stranger to spend a night in your apartment, no matter how sad the story.
  • Always have your key in your hand as you approach the entryway.
  • Never leave valuables such as TVs, stereos, jewelry, purses, etc., where they can be seen from a window.
  • Get to know your neighbors. If you look out for them, they’ll look out for you.
  • Buy renter’s insurance.
  • If any problem occurs, notify the police immediately. Keep the Police Department phone number in a conspicuous place, preferably on a sticker attached to the phone.