Students must recognize that living off-campus means it is their personal responsibility to look out for their own safety. Below are just some of the necessary safety precautions that may lessen the likelihood of you becoming a victim.
  • Don’t walk alone, especially after dark.
  • If someone is following you on foot, cross the street, change directions, or vary your pace. Walk to the nearest well-lit, public area.
  • Always keep your doors locked when driving and park in well-lit areas.
  • Always lock your doors when you are home and when you are gone. Have your keys ready before you reach your door.
  • Never leave your keys under your doormat or outside your residence where they are accessible to strangers.
  • Use caution when using social media websites. Set privacy settings to friends only, don’t check into locations, and don’t share personal information.
  • Always tell someone where you are going, when you will return, and who to contact if you don’t return.
  • Always trust your instincts. They are usually on point and could save your life.
  • In your cell phone, label your emergency contacts as ICE (In Case of Emergency).
  • Obtain crime and safety information for your off-campus housing or neighborhood. You can contact the records department at your local police station.
  • Post the local police, fire, and EMS department numbers in your phone and around your apartment or house.
  • Walk in well-lit areas and stay away from alleys, entryways, and bushes where someone could be hiding.
  • If confronted by someone, make a scene and lots of noise to draw attention to yourself and the other person.
  • Even if it seems rude, don’t hold the door open for a stranger attempting to enter the building.
  • Subscribe to campus, city, and state emergency alert systems.
  • Do not wear earphones or play music so loudly that you are unaware of your surroundings.
  • Avoid shortcuts. Walk where there are other people present.
  • Take a self-defense class.