Personal Safety Suggestions

We have assembled this list of safety suggestions to help reduce your risks of becoming a victim of crime. As always, we encourage you to use common sense and follow your instincts when it comes to personal safety.

When Walking

• Let someone know where you are going and when you will be back.
• Walk near the curb or the middle of the street.
• Avoid dark, vacant, or deserted areas.
• Use well-lit routes.
• Plan out your route in advance.
• Wear clothing that is not restrictive.
• Be alert and walk at a steady pace so that you look like you know where you are going.
• Do not wear headphones.
• Don’t walk alone if you are depressed, exhausted, drunk, or high.
• Carry a noise-making device, such as a whistle, and use it if you feel you are in danger.
• If you think someone is following you, look behind you and change your walking pattern.
• Never accept a ride from a stranger.
• Have your key ready to your house door or car door so that it can be opened immediately.
• Use UWEC SafeRide / SafeWalk for a safe ride home or walking escort.
• If you feel you are in danger, run to the well-lit place and yell and raise a commotion as you are running. Call 9-911/911.

When Driving

• Lock your car when you park it and drive it.
• Drive on well-traveled streets and keep your vehicle in gear while it is stopped.
• Before getting in, check inside and under your car to make sure no one is hiding.
• Try to park in lighted areas and near the entrance of a building.
• Keep windows up and doors locked at all times.
• If you suspect you are being followed, drive to a well-lit place and call the police.
• If your car breaks down, open the hood and stay in the vehicle. If someone offers to help, ask them to call for help. Do not accept a ride from them – stay in your vehicle.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.

When At Home

• Lock all doors and windows every time you leave your room, even if it’s just to go to the bathroom.
• Use a peephole to identify callers. Never open your door to visitors unless they identify themselves.
• Vary your routine a little each day.
• List only your first initial and last name on the mailbox, on the door, and in the telephone directory.
• Beware of places where attackers might hide; under stairs, in doorways, in the alley, etc.
• In residence halls, take security regulations seriously for your own protection and that of other residents. Report unauthorized persons or suspicious behavior to your Hall Director or R.A. immediately.
• If you live off campus, leave spare keys with a trusted neighbor, not under a doormat or in a planter.
• Try to avoid entering elevators occupied by strangers. If you are waiting for an elevator with a stranger, stand away from the door to avoid being pushed inside. Get off on the next floor if you feel uneasy. Hit the alarm button if you are accosted on an elevator.
• When using a laundry room, never remain there alone.
• If you find a broken door or window – Do Not Enter. Leave at once and then call the Police Department.
• Do not give information about yourself over the phone to a stranger. Never reveal that you are home alone.

Reduce Your Risks

• The use of alcohol and drugs is often related to incidents of acquaintance rape. When intoxicated or high, people may find themselves acting in atypical ways.
• Use alcohol responsibly.
• If you are in a situation where people are abusing alcohol and drugs, you may be in danger and should exercise caution.