Your Role in Preventing Crime

You can keep yourself, your home, your car, your classroom and office safe by incorporating safe behavior into your daily routine.

At Home

• Get to know your neighbors.
• Don't prop outside doors open.
• Lock your door, even if you're just going down the hall for a minute.
• Don't let strangers into your building, even if they look harmless.
• Report any suspicious people or activities to Campus Safety & SCPD immediately.
• Lock your windows and block sliding doors with a pole placed in the bottom track.
• Record serial numbers and keep photos or descriptions of your valuables.
• If you receive an obscene phone call, hang up. If the calls continue, report them to Campus Safety.

Out and About

• There really is safety in numbers, so always go places with a friend.
• Look confident when you walk and keep a firm grip on your bookbag, purse or briefcase.
• Avoid dark streets.
• Avoid using ATM machines at night; plan ahead and do your transactions during the day.
• Walk near the curb and avoid passing close to shrubs, dark doorways and other hiding places.
• Pay attention to your surroundings; don't become lost in thought.
• Carry your keys in you hand so you can quickly get in your car or home.
• Always carry enough change for a phone call.
• If you suspect trouble, leave the area immediately.
• If you're being intimidated, yell "Fire!" (But not in a place that may cause a panic; theater, etc.) It's often more effective than yelling, "Help."
• Jog on the track instead of on city streets, and take a friend with you.
• License your bicycle at Campus Safety or SCFD and have your drivers license number engraved on your bike frame and wheel rims.

In the Car

• Keep windows rolled up and doors locked.
• Keep possessions out of sight (in the trunk).
• Check around and inside your car before you get in.
• If your car breaks down, tie a white flag to the antenna and wait for help.
• Never go with a stranger who offers help. Instead, ask them to call your garage or someone you trust.
• Park in an area that is well lit.
• Never pick up strangers.
• Don't allow another vehicle to force you off the road; drive to a busy location, a police station or Campus Safety if you need help.

Crime Prevention Links

• National Crime Prevention Council http://www.ncpc.org
• Crime Prevention Initiative http://www.cpinitiatives.org