This section is for students to explore how to be safer on campus.
Check back here often for new information and tips!
Safety Tips
Always carry your Alertware Stick – even when you don’t think you will need it. Someone else may be in danger and need YOU to report for them.
You may save a life.
Here are some General Crime Prevention Tips that will help you maximize your Safety on Campus
Don’t hesitate to use your AlertStick to notify help at any time for any reason.
Don’t leave electronic communication devices unattended – keep your possessions in sight at all times.
Always lock doors behind you – even if leaving for a few minutes.
Trust your intuition and instincts – never ignore feeling of danger.
Use any Safe Walk program available, and tell people your whereabouts.
Make sure to stick to well-lit and well-travelled areas.
Destroy any documents which can give away personal information such as where you live or your usual habits of movement.
Understanding Sexual Assault and Violence
Protective Behaviors:
Victims are NOT responsible for being assaulted.
Students can protect themselves and others by taking precaution. Always ask your friends to carry their AlertStick and keep it handy.
When leaving campus, or going to a party or bar, let friends and roomates know where you will be and with whom. Have a plan to return home safe and sound, and leave numbers and addresses with friends.
Sexual assaults have happened when hiring a ride. When taking Taxi, or any Private Driving Service, ask the name and registration number of the driver. Make sure they know that you have shared and texted that information to a friend.
Always have a “Designated Friend” who watches and keeps an eye out for safety issues during the night.
If someone doesn’t respect your boundaries, don’t diminish or ignore the potential threat. Alcohol is the top used predatory drug – otherwise known as a “date rape” drug.
Drugs used to facilitate a variety of crimes including rape can be without an odor, taste or color and impossible to detect. Don’t let someone else get you a drink – and don’t leave drinks unattended. These drugs can render a victim defenseless.
If you see it – say it. Report everything that is even a potential safety concern.
Have locks and lights in all entrances, and make sure windows and alternate entrances are also secure. Use blinds and drapes in evening to protect your privacy and potentially your safety.
Put your first initial only on your apartment mail box. (Example M Brown instead of Mary Brown)
Know who is at your door before opening it, and never leave an outside door propped open.
Keep people away and off balconies where alcohol is involved.
Research and be aware of stalking behaviors. Know, spot, name and report any such behavior. 69% of stalkers are people who you know, and are potentially more dangerous than you know.
These simple tips can save lives.
It is up to you to be the change, and encourage your schools to create the environment you deserve – one of safety.
Stay Tuned for more helpful posts as we get our students more involved and get AlertScapes running across North America!
Yours in Safety,
Lucy DeLaat Director/Co-President