SAFETY TIPS 

Protecting Yourself at Home, in Your Room, Dorm or Apartment

  • Lock your door, even when you intend to return home shortly or even if you are just going down the hall.
  • Participate in Operation I.D.
  • Lock or secure doors and windows.
  • Keep emergency numbers by your phone.
  • Do not leave messages on your door indicating that you are away and when you will return.
  • Do not prop open outer doors.
  • If someone asks to use your phone for an emergency call, offer to telephone for them instead of allowing them access.
  • Follow all fire safety regulations.
  • Do not put your address on your key ring.
  • Know your neighbors.
  • Do not leave keys in hiding places. Carry your keys or make sure that anyone who truly needs them has their own copy.
  • Call 259-5555 to report suspicious persons or activity in or around your neighborhood. Off campus, call 911.
  • Keep ATM/debit cards in a safe place, keep your PIN number secret.
  • Instead of carrying large sums of cash use a charge card. Some charge cards insure property purchased with those cards against loss, theft or damage.
  • If you find yourself in immediate danger,   on campus, call 259-5555 or off campus, call 911.

Protect Yourself When Walking

  • Utilize the VSUPD Escort Program on campus.
  • Keep to well lit, commonly traveled routes.
  • Avoid potentially dangerous situations.
  • If you feel threatened, enter a building, store, or place of business.
Protect your Auto, Bicycle or Moped
  • Always lock your car.
  • Lock bikes to bike racks with hardened-alloy locks and chains or u-shaped locks.
  • Join the B.A.T. (Bicycle Anti-Theft) Program
  • Do not leave tempting valuables or property visible inside the car.
  • Lock mopeds as you would bikes.