Winter Break Safety: Special Checks of Residences

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

Winter Break (5 p.m. Wednesday, December, 21, 2005 through 7 a.m. Monday, January 9, 2006.) 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 (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. Wednesday, December, 21, 2005 through 7 a.m. Monday, January 9, 2006.

At least two business days in advance of their departure, students, faculty and staff who live within the following geographical boundaries—30th 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 and security officers will periodically physically check the exterior of registered properties for signs of criminal activity or security breaches. If any are discovered, 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 Winter Break, complete the application form on the Public Safety website at www.publicsafety.upenn.edu. Go to “Online Forms” and follow the instructions to submit. Or, you can pick up an application at the Division of Public Safety Headquarters, 4040 Chestnut Street. You need to complete and return the application prior to vacating the premise.

Wishing you delicious food and quiet moments with family and friends,

–Division of Public Safety

** Registering your residence for Special Checks does not guarantee that your property will remain entirely event-free throughout your absence.