Family and Home Security Information

1. A home security system will cost me a bundle

It may if you don’t do your research first, but it doesn’t have to. Compare different companies and the systems they offer, and you will soon find many affordable options, especially in the area of self-installed systems. Many of these systems require minimal investment of time and money, and can even decrease your homeowner’s premium.

2. Alarm systems require a service contract

A common misunderstanding, and most likely the result of the prominent advertising by companies that do require contracts. However, securing your home can be as simple as purchasing a system, installing it, and letting it do its job — without committing yourself to a service contract.

3. Systems must be professionally installed

Installation is a matter of simple wiring and basic programming skills, and can be done by most homeowners, especially those with a “do it yourself” mindset.

4. Alarm System Monitoring is costly

Should you decide to have your alarm system monitored, affordable options are readily available. SafeMart offers alarm system monitoring for only $24.99 per month, with no contract required.

5. My pet will cause false alarms

Alarm system manufacturers know that almost 70% of US homes have one or more pets, and they design their systems accordingly. Motion detectors with pet-immunity are just one example of how alarm systems can be effective while accommodating pet owners.

6. My home isn’t a target for intrusion

Perhaps you live in the country and are always home. Or for some other reason you believe you don’t need home security or safety products. Firstly, consider that burglars are simply looking for unprotected valuables, not a nice urban setting. Secondly, burglary is not the only consideration. Home safety products such as smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are critical for any home.

7. Hardwiring an existing home is impossible

Running wires in an existing home is possible.  There is duct cover that you can use to hide wire runs, or you can run it above or below the areas you are looking to secure.

8. Wireless alarms are unreliable

Another common misunderstanding. While it may have been true in the past, advancements in technology have made wireless alarm systems a very stable and reliable option. For example, unique radio signals are now used with wireless systems to remedy the problem of frequency interference.

9. Programming is complicated

If you can program a VCR or operate a computer, you can program an alarm system. Like anything that is new, there is a slight learning curve to overcome, but the documentation that is included with every panel is written in a way that is easy to understand.

10. Intruders can easily disable the security alarm

Hardwired systems are always a good choice if you are concerned about intruders disabling your alarm system.  This does not mean that wireless is a bad choice.  With the use of wireless keypads and keychain remotes, you can place your wireless alarm system in a secured area of your home and still have convenient access points to arm and disarm your system.

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Sexual Assault Prevention

The majority of sexual assault perpetrators are not strangers — they are people you may be acquainted with such as neighbors, co-workers, or someone you are romantically involved with.

Educating yourself about the warning signs and what to do if you are attacked will help you minimize your risk factors.

Educating yourself about the warning signs and what to do if you are attacked will help you minimize your risk factors. Tips for Safeguarding Yourself Against Sexual Assault

What to do if You are Attacked

• Try to escape.  Scream, yell, fight, kick and run.  Scream the word “fire” as it has been shown to grab the attention of onlookers more quickly.
• Talk to stall for time and assess the situation.
• If your attacker has a weapon, do whatever it takes to stay alive.
• If your attacker tries to move you to another location, do whatever it takes to prevent going.
• If you are assaulted preserving all physical evidence will help law enforcement authorities catch the perpetrator.  Do not shower, bathe, change clothes or throw anything you were wearing away.
• Report rape or sexual assault immediately to Public Safety at 280-2911.  Trained officers will respond and assist you immediately.

Preventing Acquaintance or Date Rape

• No means no.  Be clear about your sexual boundaries.
• Do not use drugs or alcohol.  They decrease your ability to take care of yourself and make decisions that are right for you.  Remember the three second rule about a drink — no matter what you are drinking, do not let it out of your sight for more than three seconds.  Do not accept a drink from someone you don’t know and trust.  It’s always best to get your own drink.
• Trust your instincts.  If something doesn’t feel right to you, leave.  Make sure you have money for transportation or have a ride home.
• Meet a first date or blind date in a public place.  Drive yourself or have a friend drive you and agree to pick you up.
• Leave social events with your friends — not with someone you just met.

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Personal Safety

Residence Halls

• Have your key or access card ready when you approach your door.  Close and lock the door immediately after you enter. 
• Keep your door locked at all times, even when you are at home.  Make an agreement with your roommate(s) that you will take a key or access card with you whenever you are out instead of leaving a door unlocked for each other.
• If you have to step outside of your room even for a minute, lock your door.  It only takes seconds for a thief to enter your room and take your property.

Off Campus

• Have your key ready as you approach your door.  If something appears to be wrong, do not enter your residence.  Call 911 for assistance.  It is better to be safe than sorry.
• Do not hide a key outside of your residence. 
• Keep doors and windows locked with deadbolts.
• Know your neighbors and who you can trust in the event of an emergency.
• Know who is at the door before you open it.  Demand identification from anyone you do not know, particularly repair or sales persons.
• Do not let anyone into your home to use your phone.  Offer to place the call for them while keeping your door locked.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

• Do not walk alone on campus at night.  Take the shuttle bus or call Public Safety for an escort.
• Know the locations of emergency telephones on campus. 
• Don’t take shortcuts through alleys or vacant lots.
• If you feel that you are being followed, stay in a lighted area and seek safety in a public building.

In Your Car

• Keep your vehicle locked at all times, whether it is parked or you are driving, and keep the windows up.  It’s easy for someone to stick a hand in your vehicle to unlock the door while you are stopped in traffic.
• Have your keys in your hand as you approach your vehicle.
• Check the back seat and floor before you enter.
• Park in well-lit, crowded areas, but avoid parking next to large vehicles such as vans.
• If you have vehicle problems and someone stops to help, roll down the window only an inch and ask him or her to call the police or auto club.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.

Follow Your Instincts

• If something doesn’t feel right to you, listen to your instincts and get out of an area or situation immediately.

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