Safety & Security

Below is a safety checklist for you to use when inspecting your premises after move-in.

In the event of a true safety emergency, call 9-1-1, followed by TU Police, 410-704-4444.

SAFETY TIPS

• Keep all doors locked, even when at home.
• Lock all windows on ground floor when not at home or in use.
• Never let strangers in your home without proper identification, including maintenance, service or repair persons.

• Do not panic if your home has been entered. Do not go into the unit. Contact the police and your landlord immediately.
• Make sure all entrance ways and stairwells in your house or apartment are well lit.
• Do not automatically open the door when someone knocks. Ask who it is; if you have questions about the response, do not hesitate to keep the door locked.
• Be sure that your smoke detectors are working; check the batteries on a monthly basis.

EXTERIOR DOORS

• Exterior doors should be core wood or metal.
• Exterior doors should be fit to the frame tightly (no more than 1/8 inch clearance).
• Exterior doors should be well lit.
• Exterior doors should have hinges on the inside, not the outside.
• Exterior doors should not be blocked by trees or bushes.
• Exterior doors should not have decorative glass panels or windows.
• Exterior doors should have a deadbolt with a one-inch chain.
• Chain locks and/or knob locks are not sufficient.
• What kind of security does the unit have: knob locks, chain, deadbolt locks or peephole? Deadbolt locks provide the best security. The unit should have more than one locking system.

SLIDING GLASS DOORS & WINDOWS

• Windows should not be covered by trees and bushes.
• A solid strip of wood or metal in the track can reinforce sliding glass doors and windows. Sliding glass doors and windows have special key locks, also found in hardware stores.
• Are there sturdy locks on all windows? 
• Are curtains, shades or blinds provided?

KEYS

• Protect yourself by never putting identification tags on your key ring or key holder. If your keys are ever lost, intruders will find you!
• Never hide a key outdoors.

OUTSIDE YOUR APARTMENT

• Are the building and grounds well maintained?
• Are the entryways, sidewalks and parking areas well lit? Are they visible from the street?
• Is there an intercom system?
• Are the residents’ names (first and/or last) printed on the mailboxes?
• Are the mailboxes lockable and in good condition?
• Are exterior doors kept locked?
• Are security bars or screens provided if it is a ground floor or basement unit?
• Can the main entryway be easily seen from the street, even at night? Is the entryway well lit?
• Do trees, weeds or bushes obscure doors and windows?

PARKING AREAS

• Are the lots and surrounding streets free of abandoned cars?
• Is parking usually available close to your door?
• Is the area well lit? Especially at night and on weekends?