Personal Safety
Personal safety and crime prevention are shared responsibilities.
The Department of Public Safety takes pride in working to prevent crime and maintain a safe campus environment. Every member of the PBA community also plays an important role in protecting themselves and securing their personal property.
The information on this page provides general guidance for evaluating your personal safety and reducing opportunities for theft. Conditions can change quickly, so remain aware of your surroundings and contact Public Safety whenever something appears unsafe or suspicious.
Three Simple Safety Habits
1
Lock It
Secure rooms, offices, vehicles, bicycles, and valuable equipment whenever they are unattended.
2
Keep It With You
Do not leave phones, wallets, bags, laptops, keys, or other valuables unattended in public areas.
3
Report It
Promptly report suspicious behavior, unsafe conditions, theft, or other concerns to Public Safety.
Crime Prevention & Personal Property
Why should personal property remain secured?
Although PBA is generally a safe environment, unattended or unsecured property creates an opportunity for theft. Property can be taken when left unattended in a classroom, library, lounge, dining area, residence hall common area, or other public location - even when the owner intended to step away for only a moment.
The simplest prevention measure: Keep your property with you or secure it with an appropriate lock whenever it is not under your direct supervision.
Security 101: The Short Course
Public Safety works to maintain a safe campus environment, but effective crime prevention also depends upon the daily choices made by each member of the University community.
- Keep your residence hall room or office door closed and locked whenever the space is unattended.
- Do not prop open exterior, residence hall, office, or controlled-access doors.
- Secure valuable office equipment or use a safe when one is available.
- Maintain a record of serial numbers, model numbers, and identifying information for valuable equipment.
- Keep copies or a secure record of the important cards and documents carried in your wallet or purse.
02
Safety in Your Residence or Home
- Keep doors and windows locked and close shades or blinds when privacy is needed.
- Use a peephole or otherwise identify visitors before opening the door.
- Consider completing a reputable self-defense course and maintaining proficiency in the techniques learned.
- Do not leave spare keys outside or in an obvious location.
03
Personal Safety in Your Vehicle
- Keep your vehicle doors locked while driving and whenever the vehicle is unattended.
- Never provide rides to strangers.
- Check the rear seat and surrounding area before entering your vehicle.
- Keep your vehicle properly maintained and maintain at least one-quarter tank of fuel.
- Remove your keys or key fob whenever you exit the vehicle.
- Place valuables in the trunk or another concealed location rather than leaving them visible on seats.
- Maintain a properly inflated spare tire and the equipment needed to change a tire.
- If your vehicle becomes disabled, call roadside assistance or police. Do not accept a ride from a stranger.
- If you believe you are being followed, do not drive home. Proceed to a well-lit, populated location or police facility and call 911.
- Keep a copy of your vehicle registration in a secure location at home and the original registration in the vehicle.
04
Personal Safety Away from Home
- Walk, exercise, and park in well-lit and populated areas whenever possible.
- Have your keys ready before approaching your vehicle or building entrance.
- Remain aware of your surroundings and the people nearby.
- Avoid displaying excessive jewelry, cash, or other valuable items.
- Use a secure cross-body bag, waist pack, backpack, or other bag that can remain close to your body.
- Avoid ATMs located in dark, secluded, or unfamiliar areas.
- Avoid working, studying, or walking alone after hours in isolated public areas.
See Something That Concerns You?
Trust your judgment and move to a safe location. Report suspicious activity, unsafe conditions, or concerning behavior to the Department of Public Safety at 561-803-2500. For an immediate threat or emergency, call 911.