U. Police to offer house checks

Students, faculty and staff living off campus will not have to hire house-sitters over Thanksgiving break. The Division of Public Safety is repeating last year's "Special Check" program for people who will be leaving their property vacant for the vacation, according to Victim Support and Special Services Director Maureen Rush. Those interested in the program are encouraged to fill out applications for the special checks at the University Police Station on Locust Walk, or at the Victim Support office at 3927 Walnut Street, Rush added. University Police will periodically check the exterior of participants' properties for signs of criminal activity or security breaches from November 23 to November 28, Rush said. The boundaries of the "Special Check" program are the Schuylkill River to 43rd Street, and Baltimore Avenue to Market Street. "The special checks [last year] were proven successful and not only were they successful in curtailing crime, but the perception of safety was increased," Rush said. University Police also recommends that those leaving their residences unattended close and lock all windows, close all shades, drapes and blinds, and lock and bolt all doors to rooms or apartments. Timers on lights, radios and televisions are also encouraged. Rush said University Police is also increasing patrols on and near campus residences for students remaining at the University. "If people have any anxiety we suggest they call campus police and report anything that may cause them discomfort," Rush said. "We want the students to act on their instincts." According to campus security notices, students are encouraged to use Escort Service after dark. Although Escort will not be provided on Thanksgiving Day, students concerned about travelling on campus can call University Police for an escort. Those remaining on campus should also try to use indoor MAC machines -- which can be found in High Rise East, Graduate Tower A, the Quadrangle, Steinberg-Dietrich Hall, Johnson Pavilion and The Shops at Penn, among other locations. University Police recommends students become familiar with the locations of blue light emergency phones on and off campus. If accosted, students should not resist, but get a good description of the assailant and contact police immediately. University Police can be reached in an emergency by dialing 511 from an on-campus extension, or 573-3333 from an off-campus phone. For non-emergencies, University Police can be reached at 898-7297, and Victim Support and Special Services at 898-4481. Philadelphia Police can be reached by dialing 911 from off-campus phones.

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