As new students arrive on campus this fall, they will be presented with many opportunities for exploration and excitement, but they may also present a vulnerable target for criminals.
Theft, in particular, is a concern as the influx of students comes to campus for the fall semester.
However, Penn Police say that this risk can be negated or reduced by taking common-sense precautions.
Patrol Captain Joseph Fischer of the Penn Police said that thefts of bicycles, laptop computers and wallets and the incidence of thefts from cars can be reduced by taking several simple steps.
Bikes can be registered with the Penn Police. If a bike is registered with the department, Penn Police Chief Mark Dorsey said, the owner has a much better chance of recovering the bike if it is stolen.
Anyone in the Penn community can register a bike by taking it to the University of Pennsylvania Police Department station at 4040 Chestnut St. In addition, police anticipate holding registration drives at campus residences later this month in order to make it more convenient for students to register bikes.
To prevent bike theft, police recommend the use of a sturdy lock at all times.
Laptop computers are valuable and portable, which makes them a prime target for would-be thieves. Police say that most laptop thefts occur in public locations when computers are left unattended, particularly at places such as coffee shops. Laptops are also especially vulnerable at the library, as owners are often distracted by other work.
Police hope to start a registration program for laptops to aid in the recovery of stolen computers.
Additionally, police say that owners should be sure to record the serial numbers of all small electronic devices, including computers, in case they are taken.
To prevent the theft of wallets, "both men and women should put wallets in pockets," Fischer said. Valuables are much safer when they are kept on the person, as opposed to in a bag or in any other location.
Anyone who keeps a car on campus can help prevent theft by removing valuables when leaving the vehicle parked and by making sure to lock it as well. Most car break-ins occur when valuable items are left in plain sight.
Newcomers to Penn are also vulnerable to crimes such as robbery and assault. Students can follow several precautions to reduce the risk of being victimized.
Dorsey noted the importance of getting to know the local neighborhoods and being aware of one's surroundings. Students should walk in groups whenever possible, particularly at night, and stick to well-traveled and -lit areas.
Penn offers several programs to enhance personal safety. The 898-WALK and 898-RIDE services ensure that students do not have to travel alone. In addition, Penn Police, Allied Security guards and University City District Safety Ambassadors routinely patrol the campus to foster a safe environment.
