Protecting Yourself & Your Property

Personal Safety

Living in North Bay, as in any large urban area, requires taking adequate safety precautions. Be observant at all times - anticipation is a major factor in preventing crimes.

If someone knocks on your door, identify the person before you open the door.
When traveling at night try to arrange to go with one or more friends. If walking, stay in well-lighted, heavily traveled areas. Walk with confidence to convey with body language that you are aware and in control. If you think someone is following you, switch direction or cross the street. If the follower persists, try to find a lighted store or home to call the police.
Always have your keys in hand when you approach your house or apartment. Fumbling in your purse or pockets for a key can distract you and put you off guard.
If you have to use a public laundry facility, try to go with a friend during daytime hours if at all possible.
Make sure that your door has a deadbolt lock and keep your door locked at all times. Also check all windows to see if they are secure and have adequate locks. Provide coverings for your windows and pull the shades or close the drapes at night.
Never leave an extra key outside for any reason; leave one with a friend nearby instead.
Carry a warning device, such as a horn or whistle, in your hand. Free whistles are available from the Campus Security office. Visit the Campus Security Office to obtain one.

Safety Features in Your House or Apartment

Under the Housing Code, your landlord is required to keep your house or apartment in a safe and sanitary condition. Locks are required on all doors that may serve as entrances to or exits from the premises. Smoke detectors are also required, and fire escapes, stairways and other exits must be kept in good repair and free of obstructions.

Additional safety features you should look for include deadbolt locks on windows. If your landlord is not willing to provide them, ask if he/she would object to your installing them yourself. The increased security will be worth the cost.

Protecting Your Property

There are some very simple things you can do to help protect your property. A few of them are:

Identify all items of value with your social insurance number. Use an engraving tools to mark your property.
Record the following information about your valuables: item, brand name, model, serial number and description. A picture of the item is helpful. Keep this list in a safe place.
Require service personnel to provide identification and authorization from your landlord before letting them into your room or apartment.

Renter's Insurance

You can insure your belongings against loss, theft or damage at relatively low cost. Companies that insure your car or other family property may offer discounts on a renter's insurance policy.