Resources

• Broward County Sheriff's Office
• Fort Lauderdale Police Department
• Hollywood Police Department
• Town of Davie Police Department

• Jacksonville Sheriff's Office

• Miami-Dade County Police Department
• North Miami Police Department

• Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office
• Orange County Sheriff's Office
• Orlando Police Department

• Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office
• Palm Beach Gardens Police Department

• Lee County Sheriff's Office
• Sarasota County Sheriff's Office

• Drug Enforcement Agency
• Federal Bureau of Investigations
• Homeland Security
• Postal Inspection Service
• Secret Service

Home Security Basics

Secure Entry Points:

• Reinforce doors and windows with strong locks and security bars.
• Consider installing a security system with motion sensors and alarms.
• Trim bushes and trees near windows to reduce hiding spots for intruders.
• Don’t hide spare keys in mailboxes, planters, or under doormats
• If you come home and find a door open or signs of a forced entry, don’t go in. Call the police from the nearest phone.

Smart Home Security:

• Utilize smart locks, video doorbells, and security cameras to monitor your home remotely.
• Set up automated routines to simulate occupancy, such as turning lights on and off at specific times.

Visitor Verification:

• Always verify the identity of visitors, especially those you don't recognize.
• Use a peephole or video doorbell to assess visitors before opening the door.
• If you let someone in and then have second thoughts, be assertive and demand that the person leave—or leave yourself.
  • Call a friend or neighbor to come over. Pretend you are not alone; mention a friend or family member asleep in the next room. Anyone who refuses to leave is a trespasser, and you should call 911 to have the person removed.

Emergency Preparedness:

• Create a family emergency plan, including evacuation routes and a designated meeting place. (Learn more about creating a plan.)
• Conduct regular fire drills and practice using fire extinguishers.
• Have a first-aid kit readily available.

Additional Tips

Secure Valuables:

• Use a safe to store important documents, jewelry, and cash.
• Consider a home inventory app to document your belongings.
• Check your insurance policies to ensure personal property is covered (or purchase insurance).

Be Mindful of Social Media:

• Avoid posting about vacations or other absences on social media.
• Limit the amount of personal information you share online.

Lighting:

• Install motion-activated outdoor lighting to deter intruders.
• Use timers to turn lights on and off when you're away.
• When you are home, pull down your shades or curtains when it is dark out.

Neighborhood Watch:

• Participate in a neighborhood watch program to increase community awareness.
• Report suspicious activity to local law enforcement.

General Safety Awareness

• Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don't hesitate to leave a situation that makes you uncomfortable.
• Communicate Your Plans: Let friends or family know where you're going and when you expect to return.
• Use the Buddy System: Whenever possible, avoid walking alone, especially at night.
• Know Emergency Contacts: Have emergency contacts programmed into your phone. 

Campus Safety

• Download the NSU SaferWatch app: Available in both the App Store and Google Play. 
• Wear Your SharkCard: On campus and at all NSU sites and centers, always wear your NSU-issued campus card (SharkCard) and report individuals not wearing proper identification.
• Utilize Campus Resources: Take advantage of campus safety services, such as NSU Shark Shuttles, escort services and emergency blue light phones.
• Be Aware of Safe Zones: Identify safe zones on campus, like well-lit areas and buildings with security personnel.
• Report Suspicious Activity: If you see something suspicious, report it to campus security immediately.

Off-Campus Safety

• Walk Confidently: Walk with a purpose and avoid appearing hesitant or vulnerable.
• Choose Well-Lit Routes: Stick to well-lit streets and sidewalks, especially at night.
• Avoid Distractions: Minimize distractions like phones and headphones when walking, especially at night.
• Public Transportation Safety: Be aware of your surroundings on public transportation. Sit near the driver or other passengers.
• Online Safety: Be cautious about sharing personal information online. Create strong, unique passwords for your online accounts. 
• Self-Defense: Consider taking a self-defense class to learn basic techniques to protect yourself.
• Carry a Personal Safety Device: Consider carrying a personal alarm or pepper spray. 

Trip Planning:

• Share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member.
• Research your destination and be aware of local customs and laws.
• Pack light and avoid carrying excessive amounts of cash or jewelry.

Accommodation Safety:

• Choose reputable accommodations.
• Secure your belongings in a safe or hotel safe.
• Be cautious of strangers and avoid sharing personal information.

Public Transportation Safety:

• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid isolated areas.
• Trust your instincts and leave if you feel unsafe.
• Use reputable transportation services.

Road Travel:

• Ensure your car is well-maintained and has gas before you drive.
• Keep your car locked and windows rolled up. 
• Don't leave valuables in plain sight.
• If you are being followed, drive to a public place such as a police or fire station, restaurant, or gas station. Never go home if you think you are being followed.
• In minor accidents, stay in your car until assistance arrives.

International Travel:

• Obtain necessary visas and passports.
• Research local customs and laws.
• Be aware of scams and pickpockets.

Vehicle Maintenance:

• Regularly schedule maintenance checks for your vehicle.
• Ensure tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread.
• Keep your vehicle clean and free of debris.

Parking Safety:

• Park in well-lit, public areas. Avoid parking in isolated or dimly lit areas.
• Do not hide a second set of keys anywhere on your car.
• Never leave your car's engine running, even if you will only be gone for a minute.
• When approaching your vehicle, have your keys in hand. 
• Use parking garages with security personnel.
• If your vehicle is disabled (e.g., a flat tire) when you leave work/school, seek help by phone or at the nearest business. (Attackers will often disable victims’ cars in order to make the drivers more vulnerable.)

Roadside Assistance:

• Have a reliable roadside assistance plan in place.
• Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, such as a first-aid kit, jumper cables, and a flashlight.

Distracted Driving:

• Avoid using your phone while driving.
• Minimize distractions from passengers.
• Focus on the road and traffic conditions.