Safety and Security
Tips and resources to ensure you are safe and secure in your off-campus housing.
Things to Consider
When looking for a place to live, it may be helpful to look for the following:
- Is the door sturdy and do the locks work? Do all of the windows have sufficient locks as well?
- How far away is emergency assistance, if needed?
- Ask the current residents/neighbors how they feel about the area.
- Are the areas outside the residence well lit, particularly the parking area to the entrance?
To avoid being a victim of theft or burglary:
- Secure your valuables. Don’t leave valuables outside of your home or early visible.
- Make sure your doors and window are locked.
- Think about investing in additional security measures, like an alarm or a camera doorbell.
- Don’t leave boxes for valuable items in the trash (Computer, TVs, etc.).
- If you plan on leaving your home for an extended period of time, have a plan for someone to collect your mail.
Renter's Insurance:
- Some housing units may require or recommend Renter's Insurance, and it may be a good idea regardless! Discuss this need with your landlord/property manager and your roommates.
Safety Resource Contacts:
- OSU Campus Safety maintains a list of emergency contacts on their webpage: See More Here
Security Checklist
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Outside the Unit:
- Is the building/home well maintained?
- Are the entryways, sidewalks and parking well lit?
- Are entryways visible from the street?
- Is the mailbox lockable and in good condition?
- Is parking usually available close to the entrance?
- Is the area well lit at night on the weekends?
- Are their designated visitor parking spots?
- Are windows clear from obstructions so that you can see in and out of the apartment/home?
- Is the unit number visible from the street?
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Entrance to Unit:
- Is the main entryway easily seen from the street?
- Are there sturdy locks on all windows?
- Are all entryway locks sturdy?
- Does the landlord have a policy about issuing and replacing keys?
- Is there a peephole at the door?
- Do doors have deadbolt locks?
- Do sliding glass doors have blocking cleats to prevent opening from outside?
- Are door locks located so they can’t be reached through a window?
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In the Unit:
- Are the exterior doors made of wood or metal?
- Do the doors have knob locks, chains, deadbolts, and/or peepholes?
- Is there a security system in the building/home?
- Is there a sufficient number of working smoke detectors in the living space and hallways?
- Are there adequate emergency escape routes in the event of a fire?
- Are there fire extinguishers?
- Do curtains, blinds, and draperies fully cover windows?
- Are there safe places to go in case of a tornado?
- Is there high turnover of residents?