Off-Campus Safety & Security

Find Out if a Community is Safe

Before you rent in a particular neighborhood, it is a good idea to investigate its safety record.

• Review the profiles of area communities in this guide.
• Contact the crime prevention unit of the local police department and ask for a crime report. Many also have websites.
• If you wish to live in Cambridge, you might want to make an appointment with the MIT Police to review crime statistics for local neighborhoods or check crime reports on the Cambridge Police website.

Fire and Carbon Monoxide Safety

Check to make sure your unit has a smoke detector and that it is in working order. If your city or town requires smoke detectors and your landlord refuses to install or repair them, contact the fire department to report the violation. If you live in a unit not covered by the smoke detector law, seriously consider installing a smoke detector on your own; it could save your life.

Read about the Massachusetts Smoke Detector Law

The local fire department also enforces requirements for carbon monoxide detectors. Notify your landlord immediately if you live in a unit that does not meet these requirements. If your landlord refuses to install or repair them, contact the fire department to report the violation.

Protect Your Property

Investing in apartment or theft and fire insurance is a good idea, depending on the value of your belongings. Students may be covered under their parent's homeowners insurance or they can purchase an inexpensive personal property insurance policy.

Emergencies

Wherever you live in the Cambridge/Boston area, if you need emergency assistance—police, fire, or medical—call 911 immediately. The Safety at MIT and MIT Police websites offer guidance on how to stay safe and who to call when you need help.