Fall Break 1996 (10/12/96 through 10/15/96) is approaching quickly. Traditionally, this is a time of lower occupancy and greater opportunity for crime. Therefore, we need to be more safety and security conscious.

In order to reduce the opportunity for crime (i.e., criminal mischief, burglaries, etc.), the Division of Public Safety is again offering to conduct Special Checks of Residential Properties during the following time frame: 5 p.m. on Friday, October 11th to 7 a.m. on Wednesday, October 16th.

Faculty, staff and students who live within the following geographical boundaries--Schuylkill River to 43rd Street and Baltimore Avenue to Market Street--may list their residence with the Penn Police Department for Special Checks during the period it will be vacant.

Penn Police officers will periodically check the exterior of the property for signs of criminal activity or security breaches. Upon discovering same, the officers will take appropriate action ranging from arresting the perpetrator to conducting an interior check of the property with subsequent notification to the listed occupant.

If you would like to list your residence for Special Checks during Fall Break 1996, please pick up an application at the Penn Police headquarters (3914 Locust Walk) or the Special Services Unit (3927 Walnut Street). You need to complete and return the application to either location prior to vacating the premise. Attached you will find Safety And Security Tips to help keep your time away from Penn a safe and happy one.

Wishing you colorful foliage and cool, crisp autumn nights,

-- Thomas M.Seamon, Managing Director, Division of Public Safety
-- Maureen S. Rush, Director of Patrol Operations

Special Safety Checks During Fall Break

If you are leaving Penn for Fall Break,

• Secure or remove all valuables (i.e., jewelry, computers, stereos, televisions, etc.). All valuables should already be engraved with your Social Security or other identifying number. Engravers are available at the Special Services Unit (3927 Walnut Street, 898-4481).
• Close and lock all windows; close all shades, drapes and blinds. Lock and bolt entrance doors to rooms or apartments.
• Use timers on lights and on a radio or television to give your residence the appearance of being occupied.
• Register your residence with Public Safety for Special Checks during the Break.
• Your answering device message should never indicate that you are not at home. Always use plural nouns even if you live alone (e.g., "we're not available to take your call right now"). Don't use your name.
• Make sure that your exterior lighting works and turn all lights on. Preferably, exterior lights should be on a timer or photoelectric cell. If not, contact your landlord regarding these security devices before you leave for Break!

If you are remaining at Penn during Fall Break,

• Use one of the ten automated teller machines (ATMs) located inside University buildings and avoid withdrawing money at night. Check the amount withdrawn only after you are safely inside your office or residence. Never display money in a crowd.
• Carry only necessary credit cards and money.
• Carry your wallet in an inside coat pocket or side trouser pocket. Carry your handbag tightly under your arm with the clasp toward your body. Never let it dangle by the handle.
• Keep your wallet or handbag closed and with you at all times. Never place it on the seat beside you, on the counter next to you or under a seat when dining.
• Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you; trust your instincts. Stay in well-lighted and well-traveled areas.
• Walk with your head up, shoulders back and your eyes scanning thepeople around you.
• Use the "buddy" system or the Penn Transit System when traveling at night. From non-University exchanges, dial 898-RIDE for the vehicular escort service or 898-WALK for the walking escort service between the hours of 6 p.m. to 3 a.m. daily.
• If you are expecting guests or workers, do not open your door until you know it is the right person(s). Always ask to see identification of callers you don't know.
• If accosted, don't resist! Don't panic! Get a good description of the assailant (i.e., approximate age, race, sex, height, weight, clothing description, direction traveled, etc.) and report the incident to the police as soon as possible.
• Know the locations of Penn's blue-light emergency telephones. Open the box, lift the receiver or push the button to talk.
• Report any suspicious person(s) or activities to the police as soon as you can: Where, What, Who, When and How.
• Know your emergency phone numbers:

  Division of Public Safety
  Penn Police Department
  3914 Locust Walk

  On Campus
  (University Exchanges:  898, 417 and 573): 511

  Off Campus: 573-3333
  Non-Emergencies 898-7297 / 7298
  Special Services 898-4481 / 6600
  Penn Investigators 898-4485

  Philadelphia Police Department
  18th Police District, 5510 Pine Street
  Emergency Telephone: 911
  General Business Telephone: 686-3180

  SEPTA Police Department
  Emergency Telephone Number: 580-4131

  -- Division of Public Safety

Almanac

Volume 43 Number 7
October 8, 1996

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