Personal Safety and Crime Prevention Guide

The safety and well-being of our students, employees, and visitors remain a top priority. The following guidelines are provided to help you stay aware, prepared, and protected—both on campus and in the surrounding community.

General Personal Safety

• When working late, ensure all office and classroom doors are locked.
• Avoid stairwells or building locations that are remote or low-traffic.
• Never prop open exterior or interior doors.
• Keep personal belongings secured in a locked desk, cabinet or office.
• Do not hold doors open for unrecognized individuals when the building is closed.
• Let someone know your location if you plan to work late on campus.
• Stay alert—avoid distractions such as texting, talking on the phone, or wearing headphones while walking or jogging.
• Consider potential “what-if” scenarios and have a personal safety plan.

Emergency Preparedness

• Office personnel should develop procedures for interacting with angry, volatile, or potentially dangerous individuals, including those involved in domestic disputes.
• Use the Security Escort Services provided by the Department of Public Safety for escorts to vehicles or other campus locations.

Vehicle Safety

• Always roll up your windows and lock your vehicle, even for short periods.
• Keep valuables out of sight; store them in the trunk before arriving at your destination.
• Never leave your vehicle running and unattended.
• Install a visible, effective anti-theft device.
• Do not hide spare keys in or on your vehicle.
• Avoid leaving personal documents (bank statements, credit card bills, etc.) in your car.
• Photocopy your registration and insurance cards and store the copies in a secure place outside the vehicle.

If Your Vehicle Is Burglarized

• Contact the Department of Public Safety immediately.
• Avoid touching or disturbing the vehicle, as this could compromise potential evidence.

If You Are Confronted by an Armed Robber

Your safety is more important than any property. If confronted by an armed robber:

• Do not resist.
• Look at the robber without staring to remember identifying details.
• Calmly assure the individual that you are complying.
• Move slowly—avoid quick or sudden movements.
• Carry only the cash or credit cards you need for the occasion.
• Consider taking a cab, rideshare, or traveling in groups when moving through the city.
• Report any robbery immediately:
• On campus: Contact the Department of Public Safety.
• Off campus: Notify local police.

Protecting Yourself Against Sexual Assault

If you are confronted with a potential sexual assault, your goal is survival. Every situation is different. Consider the following options:

• Stall for time and assess your options.
• Decide whether to fight, attempt to talk your way out, scream, or—if necessary for survival—submit.
• If you fight back, hit hard and fast, targeting the eyes or groin.

Protecting Yourself Against Stalking

Stalking involves repeated behavior that causes fear, intimidation, or distress. To protect yourself:

• Report stalking behavior immediately to the Department of Public Safety or local police, even if you are unsure about filing charges.
• Document all evidence, including:
• Recordings of threatening calls
• Vehicle descriptions and license plate numbers
• Physical descriptions
• A detailed log of all contacts or sightingsollow
• Follow through in court by obtaining a protection order or filing a civil lawsuit if appropriate.

• If the stalking continues after a protective order is issued, notify police immediately.

No prevention method is guaranteed, but prompt reporting and documentation greatly improve safety and legal protection.

Protecting Yourself from Date Rape Drugs

Date rape drugs are typically colorless, odorless, and tasteless. To reduce your risk:

• Never leave your drink unattended.
• Do not accept drinks from strangers or from people you do not fully trust.
• Watch bartenders pour your drink and accept it directly from them.
• Attend social events with trusted friends and stay together throughout the evening.
• Establish a designated driver who does not consume alcohol or drugs.
• If you believe your drink has been tampered with, seek medical attention immediately and request a toxicology test.

Be Crime Wise

Awareness and preparation are the strongest tools against crime. By learning and practicing these safety steps, you reduce your likelihood of becoming a victim and strengthen the safety of the entire College community. Stay alert, stay prepared, and never become complacent.