Safety Tips (September 8, 2006)

During the 2006 spring  semester several street robberies/muggings occurred in the area surrounding campus. Unfortunately, this type of crime is becoming more common and will likely continue this semester.
In many cases involving students, the victim was under the influence of alcohol prior to becoming a victim. These personal safety tips apply wherever one resides and may lessen your likelihood of becoming a victim.

Basic Street Smarts:

1. Stay alert. You are your own best protection.
2. Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you feel uneasy, use your cell phone to call 911 for police assistance.
3. Do not walk or jog alone after dark. Walk in groups, there is safety in numbers.
4. Do not walk/attempt to walk to or from parties, etc. while inebriated.
5. Do not allow your friends to walk/attempt to walk to or from parties, etc. while inebriated.
6. Walk in well-lit areas and stay near the curb, away from alleys, entry ways and bushes where someone could be hiding.
7. Avoid short cuts. Walk where there are other people present.
8. Let a family member or friend know your destination and estimated time of arrival.
9. Walk confidently, directly, and at a steady pace. Make eye contact with everyone you pass. Don't talk to strangers.
10. Wear clothing and shoes that give you freedom of movement. Avoid carrying a purse or too many items.
11. If you are being followed when walking, change directions, vary speed. Go to a well-lit area where there are other people.  If followed by someone in a car, turn and walk in the other direction.  Record the license number.
12. If you feel uncomfortable walking alone on campus or to nearby off-campus locations during the hours of darkness, call University Police for an escort (410-543-6222).
13. Report any suspicious activity or crimes to your local police department.

Chief Ed Lashley
University Police