Security top priority for police over break

The University's Division of Public Safety is continuing its residential "special check" surveillance program to stem off the increase in crime that typically coincides with holiday breaks. The program was started after a rash of of burglaries in High Rise North, the Quadrangle and several off-campus apartments during winter break two years ago. Last year, after the inception of the program, University Police reported burglaries in two Quad rooms and one off-campus apartment -- representing a significant decrease from the previous year. University Police Lieutenant Susan Holmes said the program had a perfect record for the 30 registered residences marked for special checks over last Thanksgiving break. "Nobody reported a theft within the properties that were registered with [Public Safety]," Holmes said. As part of the program, University Police officers will make exterior checks of the registered properties from December 23 to January 16, to observe any security breaches, she said. Students, faculty and staff living off campus between the Schuylkill River and 43rd Street and from Market Street to Baltimore Avenue are eligible for the program, Holmes added. "Be proactive and take five minutes to walk over to Victim Support or the Police station to register," Victim Support and Special Services Director Maureen Rush stressed. "It will add to the pleasure of your vacation and give you piece of mind." For students remaining on campus during the break, Rush said she recommends contacting University Police when working in low-occupancy buildings. She said officers will check on their location to make sure they are safe. In addition, Public Safety recommends that students leaving for break do the following: · Secure or remove all valuables, such as jewelry, computers and stereos. Valuables can be engraved for identification at the Victim Support office at 3927 Walnut Street. · Lock all windows and doors. Close shades, drapes and blinds. · To create the appearance that the residence is occupied, put timers on lights or a television. · Check exterior lighting and also place it on a timer. For students remaining on campus, Victim Support recommends the following: · Use only the 10 automated teller machines located inside University buildings. · Do not display money in public. · Travel in groups and in well-lighted areas. · Do not resist or panic if accosted by an assailant. Try to get a description of the person and report it immediately to the police. · Know the locations of blue-light emergency telephones. · Report suspicious actions or activities to the police. In addition, Escort Service will provide normal service through December 23, and limited service from December 24 to January 2. Transit stops and Walking Escort will not be in operation from December 24 to January 3. No service will be provided on Christmas night and New Year's Eve. Rush said during the times Escort Service is not in operation, students can contact University Police at 898-7297 for transportation.