Personal safety tips
General safety
- Body language counts! Walk with confidence. Show that you are aware and in control
- Walk or jog with a friend. If on campus, call the University Safety Aides for a safety escort
- Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys
- Avoid isolated, dark areas
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Carry a whistle or noise maker. Do not be afraid to scream if you need help
- Consider carrying a small, readily available, high-intensity flash light
- If you feel that you are being followed look directly at the person, awareness is often a deterrent. Head to the closest public area
Heading out?
- Park in an area that will be well lit when you return. When approaching your car or door, get your keys out in advance. Don’t fumble for your keys at the door
- Don’t get in your car until you have checked the inside, especially the back seat
- Before driving, lock your doors and put on your seatbelt
- Tell a friend where you are going and when you will return
- Always keep your cell phone charged and keep a charger in your vehicle
- If your car breaks down (and it’s safe to do so), remain inside, raise the hood, and keep the windows rolled up. If someone stops, crack the window and ask them to call the police
- Lock your car. Lock valuables in the trunk or hide them from view
When you get there
- Know your limits on dates and communicate them to your partner
- Don’t flash large amounts of cash or other tempting targets like expensive jewelry or clothing
- Have an “exit strategy” in case a situation makes you feel uncomfortable. Be cognizant of exits and other potential avenues of escape
- Keep an eye on your personal belongings. Take them with you if there’s no one you know and trust who can watch them for you
- If you’ve left a drink unattended, order a new one