Campus Safety advises the following common sense safety principles for those on and around campus:
Be alert. Look around you. Be aware of others on the street. Make it difficult for anyone to take you by surprise. Walk with keys in hand. Stay on populated, will-lit streets when you can. If you think someone is following you, turn around and check so that you are not caught off guard. Cross the street or change directions. If possible, avoid dark and concealed areas.
Try jogging with a partner. Try to avoid running alone, even in daylight. You could become injured from a fall and need help. Stay in well-lit areas and vary your routine. Be suspicious of people you pass many times.
Park in well-lit areas at night. Check the street before leaving your car. If you have a flat tire, seek help by calling Campus Safety ext 1375 via Emergency Phones or Cell Phone. Beware of someone instantly appearing to offer their help. Attackers often disable women’s cars, making them more vulnerable. Check the back seat before entering. Keep doors locked at all times, even when driving in daylight, so no one can jump in.
Always lock your room, office or secure your desk when you leave, even if you are to be gone for only a short while. Be alert to suspicious persons in your residence hall and work place. If you think someone may have committed a crime, get a description of the individual and a direction of travel, then call Campus Safety immediately at 1911 or 1375. Your accurate description and speedy phone call are essential in the apprehension of suspects.
Always lock your bicycle when you are leaving it unattended. A horseshoe or citadel type lock is recommended. Chains and cables are easily cut by common hand tools. Thieves know what to look for on campuses. Very expensive bicycles are prime targets that offer a great return for the minimal risk of stealing them.
Every person is a potential victim of sexual assault. The most vulnerable target is a woman alone. While a large number of reported victims fall into the 13 to 25 age bracket, indications are that this is due to an increase of reporting in this age group. National statistics indicate that 1 out of every 3 females attending college will become a victim of sexual assault, with the most vulnerable being freshmen. It is important to know, no matter who the rapist is, that rape is an act of violence and a violation of a woman’s personal rights. It can cause great emotional and physical injury.
If you are a victim of date rape or sexual assault, remember that it is not your fault. There is nothing for you to feel ashamed or guilty about. You are not to blame. Remember, that reporting date rape may lessen the chances of it happening to other women.
If you are raped, call Campus Safety at 911 or 1375. You may report the crime or you may request our services to assist you in getting aid, such as medical attention, contacting counselors with S.A.F.E. or a victims assistance program, and/or assistance through the University Disciplinary System or judicial system.