With all of the excitement and challenges of the academic year it is easy to get distracted and forget your Crime Prevention basics. Keep in mind the following basic safety tips so that you may reduce the opportunity for crime to occur and reduce the risk of becoming a victim:
On-Campus, Residence Hall, Fraternity, Sorority, or Off-Campus House:
- Do not leave your room or apartment unlocked or any window opened even for a short time.
- When entering your building, room, or apartment have your key in your hand. Do not waste time searching for your key outside.
- Do not allow anyone to follow you into your building. Report any suspicious behavior to the University Police immediately.
- Don't display or keep large amounts of money in your room. If you have to keep valuables in your room, make sure that you secure them properly.
- Never open your door to an unidentified person. All legitimate repair and professional people are required to display proper identification. Report any suspicious persons to the University Police immediately.
- Take advantage of the free engraving tool to mark your valuables.
- Take valuable property home with you when on break or vacation.
- Always keep your keys in your possession. Do not lend them out to friends or hide them in your hall, under a mat, etc.
In the Library, Academic Buildings, or Laboratories:
- Avoid working or studying alone in a building at night. Study in groups if possible.
- While in class, the library, etc. keep all possessions in view. Do not leave your valuables unattended, even for a short while.
- Avoid using stairs in remote sections of a building.
- Never prop doors open, especially fire doors, even for a short time.
- Always tell a friend or roommate where you are going, how long you will be gone, and when you will return.
- Report any suspicious behavior to the University Police immediately.
While Walking Off-Campus:
- Be alert and aware of your surroundings and all possibilities.
- Show as little fear as possible. Fear is self-defeating.
- Don't carry large amount of cash with you. Carry a checkbook or credit card.
- Do not carry a purse if you don't have to. Carry any valuables in your front pants pocket.
- If you have to carry a purse, carry it close to your body with your hand on the clasp to make the purse harder to grab.
- Avoid walking alone at night. Walk with groups of people, especially at night.
- Walk in well-lit areas and walk mid point between curbs and buildings. Avoid short cuts through alleys, parks, and vacant lots.
- Avoid using outdoor ATM's. If you have to use an ATM at night, try to use one in a well-lit, populated store.
- If someone is following you on foot cross the street, change directions, or vary your route. Always head for well-lit, populated areas. Report any incidents to the University Police immediately.
- Take advantage of bus service and safety escort service when walking at night.
- Utilize the emergency blue light phones around campus.
By remembering and utilizing these basic safety tips you can reduce the opportunity for crime to occur and make yourself less likely to become a victim of a crime.
