Moving about the campus, or anywhere for that matter, is something we usually
don’t think anything about. While the campus is a safe place, it is not crime-proof.
Therefore, take a common sense approach when walking on or off campus by:
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Planning your way in advance and using well-traveled routes.
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Avoiding dark or deserted areas. Don’t take short cuts through alleys, parks, or vacant lots,
especially at night.
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Avoid being maneuvered into alleyways, doorways, or cars.
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Be aware of those around you and if you think you are being followed, cross the street, change direction,
or go to a public place where others are present.
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Never accept a ride or get too close to a car if someone is asking for directions.
DON’T BE A TARGET.
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Walk with confidence and always keep moving. Don’t wear headphones or chat on the phone.
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Try to walk in pairs during the day and if out at night, absolutely have a companion with you.
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Use well lighted walkways, keep your purse under your arm and wallet in your back pocket.
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Don’t carry too many packages. Keep one hand free.
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Plan ahead so you don’t have to use an Automated Teller Machine (ATM). If you must use one, select
one located in a busy area.
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Always have your keys handy.
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Carry enough cash to call a cab if you are in an unfamiliar area or neighborhood.
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In case of danger, yell “get away”, throw your books or anything you have and RUN to where other people are.
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Don’t stand and fight. It is not worth the possibility of getting hurt.
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If you are physically attacked, kick, punch, pull hair, bite, poke eyes, yell and scream. The point is to either get
away FAST or draw attention to yourself.
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If you are on the Main Campus, go to the nearest Yellow Emergency Telephone or call 808-6363. If you are off campus,
call the police by dialing 911.
On The Bus? On The Train?
Taking Public Transportation is economical and fun. If you are planning on using these services, you can be safe by taking a
common sense approach:
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Choosing a seat near the bus driver or train conductor.
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Avoid isolated bus or train stops.
DON’T BE A TARGET.
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Don’t fall asleep!
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Keep your belongings on your lap.
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Be prepared and know the schedules and the route you are taking.
Driving Around ANYWHERE
Driving around Chicago and seeing the sights is very enjoyable. However, when doing so you should take a common sense approach
to safety by:
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Driving with your doors locked and windows up.
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Knowing where you are going.
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Parking in well lit, well traveled areas.
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Using a steering wheel lock or car alarm.
DON’T BE A TARGET.
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Keep your packages out of view. Don’t keep things like purses or briefcases on the
passenger seat.
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Check your front and back seat before you get in the car.
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Don’t pick up hitch-hikers.
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If a car bumps you from behind, be careful. Stay in your car and wait for the other person to get
out of their car. If you sense suspicious behavior, pull away and call the police immediately.
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If your car breaks down, raise the hood and if possible, stay inside your car. If someone offers
to help, do not open your window or door. Ask them to call the police or roadside assistance for you. Do not accept a ride.
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Carry a cellular telephone.
Home Sweet Home
Whether you live on campus or off, you can protect yourself and where you live if you take a common sense approach by:
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Keep your doors and windows locked, even if you are at home.
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Don’t admit strangers into your home or apartment building. Know who you are letting in.
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Be alert to strangers loitering around the building. If you see something suspicious, call the
Public Safety Department.
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Get to know your roommates and their friends.
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Never attach your name and address or Identification card to your key ring.
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If you advertise something for sale, do not put your address on it.
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If you want to meet someone you are buying something from, or selling something to, do so
in a public place.
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Never leave a spare key under a mat, above the door frame, or anywhere else you think nobody
will find it.
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When you leave, never, ever, leave anything cooking on a stove or in an oven.
