APARTMENT and RESIDENCE
HALL SECURITY

The Department of Public Safety encourages you to join us in our efforts to provide a safe and secure environment for you. Crime prevention and security awareness are self-serving qualities.

The following suggestions are offered for your safety and well being.

1. Unpack as soon as possible. It is not a good idea to leave property in your vehicle for extended periods, especially overnight. Even if arriving late at night, it is best to unload immediately. Ask a friend to help you move in.

2. During move-in, do not leave property unattended in your car, on the sidewalk, in the lobby, or in your unlocked room. Keep both car and room locked while unloading and moving between the locations.

3. Get acquainted with your neighbors on your floor and in your building as quickly as possible. Every resident has a role to play in security. Part of that role is to know who belongs and who doesn't.

4. Always lock your door. Whether you are at home, "just down the hall for a minute", or out of the building, always keep your door locked. Ask your roommates to do the same. If your roommate is taking a nap when you leave - lock the door.

5. Recognize strangers and do something about them. If you feel comfortable in doing so, ask them if you might help them. If not, report them to your RA, to the Residential Protection Officer patrolling your area, or call the Department of Public Safety at 740-4321.

6. Secure your personal property, especially expensive and easily transportable items. Lock them up. Use cables to secure electronic components, check the USC Bookstore for ideas. Engrave items with unique identifiers - call the Department of Public Safety Crime Prevention Officer at 743-1753 for information on borrowing engraving tools; there is a refundable $20 security deposit.

7. Do not allow entry into your complex to those whom you do not know. Don't let them "tailgate" when you use your USCard to access entrance doors. Refer them to a guest telephone. Have your USCard out and ready to use before you reach the front door.

8. Be assertive where security is concerned. You have both rights and obligations in this regard. You have a right to expect your neighbors to follow good security practices and to do things which protect your interests. You have an obligation to do the same for them.

9. Use your door viewer if you have one. Know who is on the other side before opening the door.