Taking safety precautions is an important part of living on your own off-campus.
If you are a victim of a crime while a student at Monmouth University, regardless of location, the Monmouth University community is here to support you.
Below you will find safety tips, fire safety protection, and ways to keep safe in severe weather and unexpected events.
Things you can do to deter crime and stay safe
- Report any suspicious persons or activities to the police immediately.
- Lock all doors and windows before you leave and at night while you’re sleeping. Keep doors locked during the day, whether you’re at home or not. Most break-ins occur because of unlocked doors and windows!
- Do not hide keys to your home outside.
- When you get home, check for signs of forced entry before going in. If there are signs of entry, don’t go inside. Call the police immediately.
- Do not prop doors open.
- Don’t allow strangers to enter your house or apartment.
- Be aware of your surroundings – who’s out there and what’s going on. Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in your surroundings, leave.
- Watch your keys. Don’t lend them. Don’t leave them. Don’t lose them. And don’t put your name, number, or address on them.
- Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night. Vary your route. Stay in well-traveled, well-lit areas.
- Practice internet and phone safety. Do not release any personal or financial information to solicitors or vendors unless absolutely sure they are legitimate. Please be especially careful with offers of employment.
Interacting with Law Enforcement
Local law enforcement officers are here to keep our communities safe. If they show up to your house or apartment, remember to be polite and cooperative – they are just doing their jobs.
- Most interactions are a result of a complaint – usually noise late at night
- If police arrive during a social gathering, make sure a sober tenant speaks with them.
- Comply with any directives and try not to argue or “lawyer” with police.
- Be calm and respectful
- Keep your hands visible at all times
Do not run off