​Tips to Help Prevent Office Theft and Other Crimes

The following are tips from the NIH Police to help prevent office theft and other crimes.

Any criminal activity that happens outside our gates can happen on the NIH campus. If you ever feel threatened or fear for your safety, don't hesitate to dial 911.

* Remain aware of your surroundings.

* Keep your purse, wallet, keys, and other valuable items with you at all times or locked in a drawer or closet.

* Check the identity of any strangers who are in your office suite - ask who they are visiting, and whether you can help them find that person. If you feel uneasy about challenging a stranger in your work place, call the police.

* Don't allow visitors to be alone in your office space. Be sure to provide an escort at all times.

* Be discreet. Don't advertise your social life or vacation plans and those or your coworkers online or to people visiting your place of work.

* If you bring personal items to work, mark them with your initials and a unique identification number.

* Report any broken or flickering lights, dimly lit corridors, doors that don't lock properly, or broken windows. Don't wait for someone else to do it! (ORF Maintenance Line https://58000.nih.gov or 301-435-8000)

* Don't get into elevators with people who look out of place or behave in a strange or threatening manner. If you find yourself in an elevator with someone who makes you nervous, get off the elevator as soon as possible.

* If you must work in the office or lab after hours do so with coworkers, if possible. In the event you are alone after hours, ensure your supervisor, a family member or close friend is aware of your schedule and when you plan on leaving. 

* Never open your office door to anyone you do not recognize after hours.

* Create a buddy system for walking to parking lots or public transportation. If needed, you can always ask the police to escort you: https://go.usa.gov/xEmPk. 

* Park in well-lit, well-guarded parking garages. Always lock your car and roll the windows up. When you approach your car, have the keys ready. Check both the floor and front and back seats before getting in.

* Always call the police if you see something suspicious. Some examples of suspicious behavior include: Unrecognized persons wandering through offices, persons carrying empty or oversized duffle bags/backpacks, persons dressed in unseasonal attire, and persons looking at ceilings and cameras.

The NIH Police Department encourage you to report any suspicious activity at 301-496-5685.

Please feel free to contact Detective Christine Fedorisko at Christine.fedorisko@nih.gov with any questions or concerns you may have.