Personal Safety and Crime Prevention Tips

By taking a few simple precautions, you can reduce the risk to yourself and also discourage those who commit crimes.

On Public Streets

Always be alert to your surroundings and aware of the people around you, especially if you are alone or it's dark.
Be aware of locations and situations that would make you vulnerable to crime.
Stay in well-lit areas as much as possible.
Walk confidently at a steady pace on the side of the street facing traffic.
Walk close to the curb. Avoid doorways, bushes, and alleys where someone could hide.
Don't be afraid to make eye contact with people when walking.
Do not respond if a stranger speaks to you on the street; continue walking.

Vehicles and Parking

Always lock your vehicle doors after entering or leaving the vehicle.
Have your keys in your hand when approaching your vehicle (or home). You'll get inside much quicker and will avoid placing yourself in a vulnerable position.
Park your vehicle in well-lit, designated parking areas only.
If someone is loitering near your unoccupied vehicle as you approach it, keep walking or go to a safe place until the person leaves.
Do not keep valuables in your car. If you must, place them in the trunk where they will be out of sight or take them with you for safeguarding.

Around Campus

Be observant. Stay aware of your environment and familiarize yourself with campus buildings and locations of public safety officer posts.
Never leave your property unattended—theft is always possible.
If you need to step out for a break or to get a snack, leave your property with someone you trust or take it with you.
After dark, walk in well-lit areas of campus and the surrounding area. Remain on well-traveled walkways and walk in groups, if possible—there is safety in numbers.
Call the Office of Campus and Community Safety Services at extension 5511 to request a security escort to campus parking lots and nearby bus and subway stations. Requests should be made 15 to 20 minutes before needed.

If you see any suspicious activity on or near the campus, report it to the Office of Campus and Community Safety Services at extension 5445 or 5445.

If you see something...say something.

Using Rideshare Services Like Uber and Lyft

Wait for Your Ride Indoors

This prevents you from standing outside unnecessarily with a phone in your hand, signaling to passing motorists that you're waiting for someone to pick you up. Instead, wait until your driver is close or has arrived before going outside.

Confirm Details When the Car Arrives

Don't just look at what time your driver is coming. Pay attention to the make, model, and color of the car as well as the driver's name and photo. Make sure to match the license plate number on your screen to the one you see in real life.

Map Your Own Route During the Ride

This is especially important if you're in a different city and aren't familiar with the route. By monitoring your own GPS navigation, you'll see if the driver is leading you astray.

Don't Share Private Information With Your Driver

This includes your personal phone number. The Uber app automatically encrypts both the driver's number and the passenger's digits to protect both sides' privacy. You should never share credit card info with the driver. All Lyft and Uber fares are paid through the app, and tips can be added there, too.

Ride in the Back Seat

If you're the only passenger in the car, riding in the back seat gives both the passenger and driver more personal space. It also ensures you're able to get out on either side to avoid traffic.

Tell a Friend Where You're Going and Who You're With

Both Lyft and Uber let you quickly and easily share who your driver is, where you're going, and when you're supposed to get there.

The "share status" option in the Uber app gives your friend your driver's name, photo, license plate, and location. Your friend can then track your trip and see your estimated time of arrival even if he or she doesn't have the app.

The "send ETA" feature on the Lyft app is very similar. It sends a text to your friend with details about the car, the driver, and how far along you are on the route.