Students at Arcadia University and in the surrounding area consistently report that they feel safe. Unfortunately, each year, some students are victims of certain crimes both on and off campus. Some common factors are the misuse of alcohol, drugs, leaving car doors unlocked and allowing strangers to enter buildings. Although the Glenside area is generally safe, you have to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself.
In Your Home or Apartment
- Doors and windows to your residence should be equipped with quality locking mechanisms.
- Entry doors should have peep holes and dead bolt locks.
- Never loan out your key.
- Always lock your doors and 1st and 2nd floor windows at night. Never leave a door unlocked for a housemate.
- Do not leave your valuables, such as your ID, wallet, jewelry, etc. in open view.
- Do not let strangers in the building or allow them to “tailgate” in behind you.
- Do not leave notes on your door that you are not there.
- Keep your shades drawn when changing clothes or retiring for the night.
- Leave spare keys with a trusted neighbor. Never hide them around the exterior of your apartment.
- Arrange for service people to come when someone else will be present.
- Avoid isolated areas, such as stairwells, laundry rooms, the basement, etc. when you are alone.
Fire Safety for Off-Campus Living
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, each year college and university students on and off campus experience hundreds of fire-related emergencies nationwide. There are several specific causes for fires on college campuses, including cooking, intentionally set fires, overloaded power strips, and open flame.
Overall, most college-related fires are due to a general lack of knowledge about fire safety and prevention. It is important that both on- and off-campus students understand fire risks and know the preventative measures that could save their lives.
Fire Safety Tips
Candles
- Make sure candles are in sturdy holders and put out after each use.
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Keep candles away from draperies and linens.
- Use flameless candles which are both safe and attractive.
Cooking
- Cook only where it is permitted.
- Keep your cooking area clean and uncluttered.
- Never leave cooking unattended.
- If a fire starts in a microwave or electric oven, keep the door closed and unplug the unit.
Smoking
- Make sure cigarettes and ashes are out.
- Never toss hot cigarette butts or ashes in the trash can.
- Use deep, wide ashtrays. Place ashtrays on something sturdy and hard to ignite.
- After a party, check for cigarette butts, especially under cushions. Chairs and sofas catch on fire fast and burn fast.
- It is risky to smoke when you have been drinking or are drowsy.
Before Signing a Lease
Ask:
- Are working smoke alarms installed? (Preferably in each bedroom, interconnected to sound all if any one detects smoke)
- Are there at least two ways to exit your bedroom and your building?
- Do the upper floors of the building have at least two interior stairs, or a fire escape?
- Is a sprinkler system installed and maintained?
- Are the existing electrical outlets adequate for all of the appliances, computers, printers and electronics that you are bringing – without the need for extension cords?
- Are there EXIT signs in the building hallways to indicate accessible escape routes?
- Does the building have a fire alarm system installed and maintained?
- Has the buildings heating system been inspected recently (in the last year)?
- Is the building address clearly posted to allow emergency services to find you quickly in the event of an emergency?
- Does the sprinkler system or fire alarm system send a signal to the local fire department and/or campus security?
In Your Vehicle
- Park in well-lighted areas.
- Do not leave valuables lying in plain view in the vehicle. Take them with you or lock them in the trunk.
- Do not leave your keys in your car.
- Remember where you parked your car so you don’t have to wander around looking for it.
- Keep your doors and windows locked.
- Remember where you park. Have your key ready to open your doors as you approach your car.
- Look inside your vehicle before getting inside.
- If you are followed by someone in another vehicle, drive to an open business, fire station, police station, etc. for help. Do not drive to your residence.
- Don’t offer rides to people you don’t know.
Online
- Protect your computer from Internet intruders. Use anti-virus software and firewalls.
- Create passwords that would be difficult for someone to guess. Protect your passwords.
- Never give your name, address, telephone number, passwords, credit card numbers, or other personal information to others online.
- Never agree to meet alone and face to face with someone you’ve met online.
- Take a friend with you and meet in a public place.
- Never respond to messages from unfamiliar persons.
