University Police

Crime Prevention & Safety Tips

Personal Safety Tips

• Avoid walking alone, especially at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Be aware of potential "hiding spots."
• Walk with confidence, briskly. LOOK alert. BE alert.
• If you feel you're being followed go immediately to a populated area.
• If confronted, make noise. YELL! Don't panic.
• If attacked, give a full description to the police as soon as possible.
• Don't fall into the "it can't happen to me" syndrome.

Vehicle Safety

• Always park in a well-lit area.
• Always lock your vehicle.
• Carry small loads, keeping arms free for movement.
• Carry your keys at the ready.
• As your approach your vehicle, observe it. Look around the vehicle. Check back seat and floor before entering.
• As soon as you are safely inside your vehicle, lock the door.
• Never hitchhike, and never pick up a hitchhiker.
• Never let your gas get below one quarter of a tank.
• Record VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), registration and license plate numbers and keep them in a safe place. Attach a photograph of your vehicle.
• Carry insurance.
• Never leave your keys unattended in your vehicle.
• Keep valuables out of sight or locked in your trunk.
• Carry a spare key on your person. Avoid using magnetic boxes that attach to the vehicle.
• Avoid bumper stickers that might antagonize individuals or groups.
• Avoid antagonizing other drivers.
• Travel on main streets and highways as much as possible.
• If you see a disabled vehicle, don’t stop. If you want to help, drive to a nearby phone and inform police of the vehicle’s location.
• If your vehicle becomes disabled, lock your doors and stay inside the vehicle. If someone stops to help, do not open your door or window. Ask the person to please go to a telephone and call for help.

Items To Carry In Your Vehicle

• 4-way wrench with leverage pipe, and tire iron or large screwdriver to remove hubcap.
• A good jack, preferably hydraulic, and the knowledge to use it.
• Aerosol canister for inflating tires.
• A change of clothing - warm jacket, gloves, boots, hat.
• Cellular phone.
• First-aid kit.
• Good spare tire, to be checked regularly.
• Flashlight with extra batteries, road flares, triangles, blanket.
• Jumper cables, map and/or atlas.