Moving into your first apartment can be an amazing experience. There are so many things you get to do now that you are on your own! 

Now you're in charge…of everything! Not just bills and grocery shopping, but what to do if you smell gas in your apartment or if you hear a strange noise for a prolonged period of time outside. You are the “man/woman” of the house now.

No need to stress about it though, we have your "my first apartment" checklist: important numbers right here! All the numbers that you need to make the responsibility a little less overwhelming. This way you can stay ahead of the game and if anything happens you'll be prepared!

Emergency: 9-1-1

This number is to be called in the case of an accident, a fire, a crime in progress, or life and death situations. This is the first number you should call if any of the above are happening. After you give the dispatcher on the phone your location they'll send police, paramedics, and/or the fire department.

Non-Emergency Numbers

It’s important to have the numbers of the local safety departments in Chico even if something isn’t 9-1-1 worthy. Don’t feel like just because it’s not classified as an emergency that you can’t call anyone.

Here is a list of different places and numbers in case something happens:

• Police Non-Emergency: (530) 897-4900
• Fire Department: (530) 897-3400
• PG&E: 1-800-743-500
• California Water: (530) 893-6300
• Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Animal Emergency

Is something wrong with Fido? Don’t worry, here in Chico we have a veterinary center open 24 hours. Valley Oak Veterinary Center is located at 2450 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway. If you have an emergency they suggest calling them on the way to their center so that they can start to prep for your arrival.

If you notice an animal walking around that has no tags or looks like it doesn't belong to anyone in the area you can also give Animal Control a call and let them know. 

Animal Control: (530) 897-4960

Valley Oak Veterinary Center: (530) 342-7387
 

Know Your Community 

Since you're living in your first apartment it’s important that you have the number of the manager of your building or complex. This way you can inform them of anything that is going on in or around your apartment. They will appreciate you giving them a heads up on what is happening so they aren’t left in the dark. This also lets them be able to answer any questions they are asked during or after the situation.  

When thinking of "my first apartment," did it cross your mind to be friends with the people living across from you or next to you? If not, then you should start thinking about it because it’s a good idea to have the numbers of your neighbors in case what is happening affects them in some way. They could also be there to help you out in a tough situation. Either way it's a good idea to not be strangers with the people living around you.

Once again, if there's anything going on that leaves you with an uneasy feeling or you're just worried, don’t hesitate to call any of the numbers listed above. If it’s an emergency please don’t hesitate to call 9-1-1. If it’s not an emergency consult the list above for the appropriate number to call and remember to keep your apartment manager in the loop!

At Hignell Rentals, we want you to be safe above all else! For more information on ways to stay safe in your apartment check out our free Safety Tips resource!