Crime Prevention Strategies

While Walking:

Avoid walking alone, particularly after dark. If walking alone is unavoidable, be aware of your surroundings.
Walk with confidence and determination, holding your head up. Look behind and around you frequently.
Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible.
Avoid shortcuts. The shortest route is not always the safest route.
Walk close to the curb. Avoid doorways, bushes and alleys.
Wear clothes and shoes that give you freedom of movement.
Carry your personal belongings in a backpack or similar container that will enable your arms and hands to be free at all times.
Be careful when people stop you for directions. Always reply from a distance and never get too close to the car.
If you are in trouble, attract help any way you can. Scream, yell for help or yell, "Fire!"
If you feel you are being followed, walk into a public building or knock on someone's door.
The Student Government Association provides buses in the evenings between the residence halls, academic buildings and commuter parking lots. You are encouraged to use these services for your safety and protection.

Keep your car in good working order and the gas tank at least half full.
Park in well-lit areas and lock the doors, even if you will be gone only a short time.
When you return to your car, have the key ready and check all seats and the floor before getting into the vehicle.
Drive with all the doors locked. Never pick up hitchhikers.
If you are being followed, do not drive home. Go to the nearest police or fire station and honk your horn or drive to an open gas station or other business where you can safely call the police. Don't leave your car unless you are certain you can walk inside the building safely. Try to obtain the license plate number and description of the car following you.

Never leave your personal property unsecured or unattended.
Look around and be aware of your surroundings when you enter and exit a building.
Always tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to return.