You can have a significant effect upon the security of your residence by taking a few moments to assess its weaknesses and a few more moments to take simple actions (many of which cost nothing but your time or a bit of physical exertion) to eliminate or strengthen those weaknesses. Whether you own your residence or are a tenant (either in the traditional sense or as a student residing in University residence hall or apartment housing) does not materially affect your ability to take action to prevent crime; if you rent, however, you must seek permission from the owner or agent for the property where you reside to make any permanent changes to those premises. GENERAL GOOD PRACTICE Experience has demonstrated three basic concepts repeatedly: The appearance that an occupant is present and is attentive to the condition of the property is, in itself, a potent deterrent to would-be criminals, and Physical security equipment is absolutely worthless unless used, and The component in any security system most likely to fail is the human one. Keeping your residence neat and clean, in good repair, and giving the appearance of being home (ie being in and out and active inside) is the first fundamental step toward preventing crime there. The second fundamental step toward home crime prevention is to be a good neighbor. Get to know your neighbors and their habits to the extent that you can recognize deviations from normal behavior (and they can do the same for you). Call the police when ...