What To Do If You Are A Victim Of A Crime

If you are the victim of a crime, you should contact the police department (911) and Saint Joseph’s University Security at (610) 660-1111

NOTE: The following tips regarding personal and property safety are intended to educate students and prevent crimes of opportunity. The tips should not be perceived in any way as blaming the victims when crimes do occur.

Personal & Property Safety Tips

Remember: you can become the victim of a crime at any time.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Immediately report any suspicious persons.
• Stick to well-traveled, well-lit streets. Don’t walk alone at night.
• When going off campus, travel with friends you trust.
• Call for Public Safety for an escort.
• Do not leave doors unlocked and do not prop doors open.
• Avoid isolated areas when studying or doing research.
• Never give your name/address to strangers. Never get into a stranger’s car.
• If you become a victim, don’t resist, comply then run and attract attention. Regarding your Vehicle
• Lock your car, even in your own driveway.
• Roll up your car windows completely.
• Remove the keys from the ignition.
• Never leave your car running unattended.
• Park as close as possible to a source of light or activity.
• Do not leave valuables in plain sight (lock them in the trunk, if possible).
• If you have a garage, use it and lock the garage door.
• Important papers, vehicle title, credit cards, should never be left in a car.

Burglary Prevention

Burglaries are usually crimes of opportunity, occurring at residences where a door or window has been left unsecured. Remember to keep your doors and windows locked at all times, especially when you are alone, sleeping, or when the apartment is unoccupied (even if only for a few moments)!

• If you return home and discover a broken window/screen or an open door, do not enter the house. Call the police and SJU Security, and await instructions.
• If you think you hear someone breaking in, leave safely if you can and call the police. If you cannot leave, lock yourself in a room with your phone and then call the police.
• Do not open the door for someone you do not know.
• Be sure you have blinds or curtains on your windows, and keep them closed at night. Make sure all lights are working.
• Place items of value out of sight and in locked areas. Do not leave valuables unattended in common areas.
• As best you can, do not leave deliveries outside.
• Make a list of your valuables and mark them. Take photos of the items and list their serial numbers and descriptions.
• Guard against identity theft. For information on preventing identity theft, visit www.consumer.gov/idtheft.

Traveling Out Of Town?

Going home during a university break or just leaving town for a couple of days? These tips can increase the security of your residence:

• Ensure good lighting around all doors.
• Lock all doors and windows.  Do not hide spare keys outside.
• Have someone you trust watch over your house or stop by while you are away.
• Don’t leave valuables in the open or near windows. Close all curtains and blinds.
• Put a hold on mail and package delivery.  Consider using timers for interior lights.
• In the winter, do not turn the heat off. Check your lease for directions on settings. This is generally no lower than 55-60 degrees to avoid frozen pipes.

 **Check your window and door locks now. If they are not working properly - contact your landlord!

Lost/Stolen Wallet or Purse?

1. Contact the police to file a report.
2. Report your wallet/purse lost or stole to SJU Public Safety.
3. Contact your bank (e.g. credit and debit cards).
4. Set up fraud alerts with national credit bureaus.
5. Consider identity theft protection.
6. Check your credit reports for unusual activities.
7. Get a new driver's license.
8. Get a new SJU indentification card.