General Campus Safety Tips

General Campus Safety Tips

There are actions all Huskies can practice every day to reduce risk and make our campuses safer places. Crime reduction starts with prevention. The UConn Police Department works hard to keep the community safe, but can’t predict all criminal activity. Practice some of the following steps every day you are on campus and help eliminate the incentive for criminal behavior:

  • Lock your doors. Lock the doors to your dorm, apartment, or car. This simple act is actually a significant deterrent.
  • Do not leave doors propped open. Even if your friend is just “5 minutes behind you” do not prop it open. For example, if you prop the door to a residence hall open, you have potentially placed that entire building at greater risk.
  • Avoid walking alone at night. Call HUSKY RIDES at 860-486-4809 for an escorted ride. For more information on their services, visit their website.
  • Keep your UConn ID on you at all times. It is very important to have ID on you in the event of an emergency. Do not let anyone borrow your UConn ID, even friends.
  • If you lose your ID, report it and get a new one immediately.
  • Protect your valuables. Do not leave valuables unattended or unsecured in a public place, like the library or Student Union. Lock up bikes or scooters.
  • Be aware of your surroundings. Know where exits are. Take note of fire alarm pull box locations and Code Blue Phone Kiosks. Sometimes the nearest exit isn’t the way you normally travel!
  • If you see any suspicious activity, notify the UConn Police Department. You have your own daily routine. If something just doesn’t fit in to the usual picture or makes you feel uncomfortable, let someone know. Program the routine Police Department phone number, 860-486-4800, into your phone.
  • When driving, do not stop to pick up hitchhikers and do not stop in poorly lit areas.
  • If you think someone is following you, stay in well-lit, public areas. If you pull your car over or stop walking, and they still follow you, continue moving to a crowded public area where you can get assistance. Good locations to go include the UConn University Safety Complex, the Student Union, Library, or Dining Hall.
  • Just be smart, be aware, and always think before you act. Practice personal and fire safety every day.