Safety Sense Personal and property safety is generally a matter of basic common sense. You don't have to be "paranoid" to make the small life-style adjustments that will help protect you and your belongings. Try not to invite crime, and you will probably not become its victim. The following are simple suggestions that will be easy to follow. Personal Safety The most obvious precaution of all--don't walk alone at night! Both males and females should heed this advice. Muggers and other attackers are less likely to approach groups of two or more people. Call the Escort Service (924-2988) to arrange a ride if you can't find people to walk with you, or call Student Watch at 97WATCH (979-2824) for the Walking Escort service. If you must walk alone at night, choose well-lit, heavily trafficked areas. Avoid alleys, railroad tracks, and short-cuts where attackers could hide. Walk quickly and determinedly, as if you are late for an important appointment. Don't accept rides from strangers, and stay a safe distance from people who stop their cars and ask for directions. Have your keys ready as you approach your car or home. If you have roommates, keep tabs on each others' whereabouts. Don't leave notes pinned on the front door, but keep each other informed of coming and goings. Leave lights on for each other. Don't leave "hidden" keys. When you're home, don't open the door unless you know who is on the other side. If you live on the ground floor, don't sleep with windows open. Draw curtains and shades to discourage "peeping toms" or potential burglars who may be casing your place. Property Safety This is as basic as not walking alone-lock doors and windows, especially when you are away, but even when you are home. Do not "hide" keys for friends and roommates. A friendly (or not so friendly) burglar can probably find the key very easily. If you have sliding glass doors, use a track rod or broomstick in addition to the lock. Have valuables engraved with your name or social security number. Engravers are on loan from the University and Charlottesville police, as well as the Charlottesville public library. Be sure that you have tenants' insurance. You may be covered by your parents' homeowner's policy. If you're not, obtain your own policy by contacting a reputable insurance agency. Frequently, an independent agent who can shop around for you will find the best policy to suit your needs and budget. If you have very valuable items (such as family heirlooms) that you don't really need here at school, consider leaving them with you parents or putting them in a safe deposit box. When you go on vacation, take the following precautions: Notify your landlord or resident manager (your lease may require this) and trusted neighbors who can watch your place. Stop delivery of newspapers and mail. Make sure your place is securely locked-doors and windows. Put movable items on your porch, balcony, and backyard inside. This includes bikes. If possible, take valuables such as stereos and TV's with you. If not, hide them or put them in a lockable closet or cabinet. Put a timer on some lights or at least leave a few lights on. Don't close all the blinds and curtains (it's a sign that no one is home), but do close any that would allow a clear view of the inside. Reduce the heat but do not turn it off completely! Maintain a temperature of 55' to 60' to avoid frozen pipes. Whether leaving town or living your everyday life, this is a simple list of suggestions to help make you and your belongings safer. If you do encounter a problem, call the Charlottesville/Albemarle emergency number, 911. The dispatcher will forward your call to the appropriate agency -- Charlottesville/Albemarle or University Police or the Rescue Squad. Call 911 For Emergencies