Insurance and Safety at College

Whether your children are already in college or will be soon, there are insurance and safety issues (yes, on top of everything else you need to think about!) that must be considered.

PERSONAL PROPERTY INSURANCE 
Most homeowners policies cover your children's belongings while they are gaining their higher education if they live on campus, are under the age of 24 and their legal address is your residence.

Many students choose to live off campus, and that creates a need for a separate renter's policy. Renters insurance is very inexpensive and a must when you think about how much they take with them (if you don't remember how much, wait until they bring it all back home!).

FIRE SAFETY 
Every year college and university students experience a growing number of fire-related emergencies. According to the USFA Fire Safety 101 Program, many factors contribute to the problem of dormitory housing fires:

- Improper use of 911 notification systems. 
- Hindered evacuation efforts - fire alarms are often ignored. 
- Evacuations are delayed due to lack of preplanning. 
- Vandalized and improperly maintained smoke alarms and fire alarm systems. 
- Misuse of cooking appliances. 
- Overloaded electrical circuits and extension cords.

Check with your college to ensure they:

- Regularly inspect fire and smoke alarms. 
- Have updated evacuation maps in the housing facilities. 
- Inspect exit doors and windows routinely. 
- Conduct fire drills and practice evacuation plans.

THEFT 
According to Colby-Sawyer College, theft is the most common crime on American college campuses. Being aware of your surroundings is an important part of crime prevention, especially in areas where thieves are most likely to strike such as academic buildings, residence halls, libraries, and parking lots.

Thieves will look for cash which is sometimes left unsecured. Bikes are a good target because either whole or in parts, they can be quickly removed from campus and sold. Books, stereos, CDs and tapes can be converted into fast cash.

SAFEGUARD YOUR VALUABLES BY PRACTICING THESE EASY TIPS:

- Keep doors and windows locked, even if you are inside the room sleeping or plan to be absent for only a short time. 
- Keep small, valuable items like cash, checks, credit cards, and jewelry locked in a safe place. 
- Do not lend your key(s) or give your lock combination(s) to anyone, even friends. 
- Do not prop open doors; this prevents unauthorized access to your residence hall. 
- Record your personal property, including serial numbers.