While police and security departments are responsible for ensuring that our campuses are as safe as possible, the primary responsibility for crime prevention and personal safety rests with each individual.

Anti-Theft Tips

- Keep your dorm room locked at all times.

- Lock your office when it is unoccupied.

- Do not prop doors open.

- Do not give your keys to any unauthorized person.

- Anchor valuable office equipment.

- Keep personal valuables secured.

- Don-t leave personal valuables unattended.

- Maintain on file serial numbers of all equipment.

- Copy all important papers and cards that are in your purse or wallet.

Personal Safety in Your Car

- Always keep your car doors locked.

- Never give strangers a ride.

- Check the back seat before entering a car.

- Keep your vehicle properly maintained and have at least a quarter-tank of gas.

- Put valuables in the trunk, not on the seats.

- Always carry enough change for a phone call.

- Always have a good spare tire and a jack.

- If you break down, wait with your vehicle, and ask a passerby to call AAA or the police. Don-t accept a ride with a stranger.

- If you feel that you-re being followed, drive toward a well-lit public area, preferably a police station.

- Keep a copy of your vehicle registration in your vehicle; keep the original at home.

Personal Safety at Home

- Keep shades down, and windows and doors locked.

- Use your peephole before opening the door.

- Take a self-defense course and maintain proficiency. (Contact Public Safety for information.)

- Don-t leave a spare key outside.

- If you receive an obscene phone call, hang up immediately.

- Use only initials on mailboxes and in telephone directories (to protect your identity).

- Make sure the exterior of your home is well lit.

Personal Safety Away From Home

- Walk, exercise, and park in well-lit areas.

- Avoid walking or exercising outdoors alone.

- Carry your keys in hand so that you-re ready to enter your car or building.

- Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you.

- Don-t wear excessive amounts of jewelry.

- Use a waist pack rather than a purse.

- Be careful when patronizing ATMs; avoid ATMs in secluded or dark locations.

- Avoid working or studying after hours in public areas.