While reading the Aug/Sept 2002 edition of ROMA BC’s “Top Storey” newsletter, I came across an article by Sandra Found about two young women who were attacked and a wonderful list of “Safety Tips for New Residents” compiled by ROMA BC for distribution to primarily new, but also to existing residents.  The PPMA, with thanks to ROMA BC has provided that list of safety tips below, to help you help your residents remain safe in their new home.

 

GENERAL:

 

Ø Keep all doors locked at all times.  Do not leave them unlocked even for a few minutes.

 

Ø Do not lend your keys to anyone.

 

Ø If you lose your keys, notify your property manager/caretaker right away and have the lock changed.  (There will be a fee for this service, but it is more important that you stay safe.).

 

Ø When arranging for your phone, make sure that you do not list your full name in the phone directory, especially if you are a single woman.  Just have your first initial appear with your last name.

 

Ø Require identification from sales/service people before letting them into your home or allowing them to remove any item for servicing.

 

Ø If you come home and find a door or window open or broken, do not go in.  Call the police and notify your property manager/caretaker right away.

 

Ø Never open the door to a stranger.  Offer to make an emergency call while someone waits outside.

 

Ø Stick to well traveled streets.  Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots or alleys.

 

Ø Do not flash large amounts of cash or other tempting targets, like jewelry.

 

Ø Try to use automatic teller machines in the daytime.

 

Ø Trust your instincts; if someone or something makes you feel uneasy, avoid the person or leave the area.

 

Ø Have your house keys or car keys in hand before you approach your door or vehicle.

 

Ø Do not leave computers, stereos, or other expensive items near windows where they can easily be seen by passers by.

 

Ø Leave an emergency contact name and phone number with your property manager/caretaker.

 

Ø Never hide your key somewhere for your friends to use to enter your home when you are not there.

 

Ø If you are going away for more than a couple of days, do not let your mail or newspapers pile up.  Arrange for someone to pick them up.

 

Ø Get to know your neighbours so that you have someone to call or go to if you are uncomfortable or frightened.

 

Ø If you walk alone on any of the trails around town, carry a cell phone for emergency use.

 

APARTMENTS:

 

·         Do not prop open the main door to the building and keep the security door shut.

 

·         Holding the security door open for unidentified people behind you destroys the purpose of the security door.

 

·         Do not buzz anyone in through the security door unless you know his or her identity.

 

·         Do not prop open fire doors.

 

·         Report any suspicious activities to your property manager/caretaker, such as unfamiliar persons hanging around your building or grounds.

 

·         Do not leave windows and/or sliding glass doors open when you are not at home.  Make sure they are locked when you go to bed at night, especially if you live on the ground or second floors.

 

·         Never use your sliding glass door or window to exit or enter your suite.  This puts the security of the entire building at risk as it alerts burglars to an easy access point.

 

·         Advise your property manager/caretaker if you are going to be away for more than a few days.

 

·         When your property manager/caretaker lists your name on the building directory, make sure that only your last name or the word “occupant” is used.

 

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If you would like to receive a copy of these safety tips for distribution to your new residents, please contact the PPMA office at ppma@mts.net or 444-4832.