HOME AND APARTMENT SECURITY Lock your doors even when at home. Never open your door without knowing who is on the other side. Leave lights on when you go out. Use automatic light timers when out of town. List only first initial and last name on mailbox and in telephone directory. Answering machines should not indicate you are on vacation or not at home. If strangers telephone or come to your door, don't admit that you are alone. Contact post office and advise to stop mail until your return. Notify someone of your departure and expected arrival times. Include your route of travel. Take all items of value with you. Don't assume your roommate will secure it.

WHILE SHOPPING Let someone know where you are going. Know where you are going and the hours of their business. Shop in a non-troubled area. Carry only the amount of cash or credit cards that is needed for shopping. Carry a purse with a short handle and keep it close to your body. Avoid waiting for long periods of time at bus stops. If you feel someone is following you approach someone for assistance or go to a lighted house if away from a shopping area. Always keep your vehicle doors locked while driving and parked. Lock all items out of view, preferably in the vehicle trunk.

REMINDERS Walk with another person, whom you know reasonably well, whenever possible. Avoid narrow walkways between buildings. Be wary of strangers who stop their cars and ask for directions. Avoid using Automated Teller Machines (ATM's). For further information on how to help make your holiday season a safer one, call the: University of Dayton, Department of Public Safety, Crime Prevention Unit, Detective Tim Hedges at 937-229-2121. Happy Holidays...