Crime Prevention Tips

Driving:

Never pick up hitchhikers.
Do not get close to a vehicle if you are walking.
Have your keys out and ready.
Make an inspection of the interior before you enter your vehicle. Once inside, lock all doors and windows.
Park in well-lighted areas. Do not park where suspicious persons are loitering.
Trust and follow your instincts.

Keep doors and windows locked at all times. All exterior doors should be equipped with deadbolt locks.
If you do not have a peephole, request that one be installed.
Know whom to call in an emergency.
Do not open your door for anyone you do not know. If a person in uniform knocks and you did not call for assistance, contact the person's place of employment to verify the reason for the visit.
Use outside lighting and keep shrubbery trimmed around windows and doors.

Never leave your personal property unsecured or unattended.
Look around and be aware of your surroundings when you enter and exit a building.
Always tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to return.
Be aware of your surroundings and think about how you would defend yourself. Develop a "game plan" for prevention.
Avoid walking alone, particularly after dark. If walking alone is unavoidable, be aware of your surroundings.
Walk with confidence and determination, holding your head up. Look behind and around you frequently.
Avoid shortcuts. The shortest route is not always the safest route.
Dress for mobility, particularly after dark.
Carry your personal belongings in a backpack or similar container that will enable your arms and hands to be free at all times.
Never allow someone to predict your route of travel. Whether you are driving, biking, walking, or jogging; frequently alter your route between campus and your residence.

Know your sexual limits and communicate them clearly and firmly.
Do not allow your body language to send a different message than what you are verbally communicating.
Avoid the use of mind-altering drugs. (This includes alcohol.)
Listen to and respond to your instincts. They are usually correct.
Never accept a ride from someone you do not know well.

Never prop your door open, even if you will be gone for only a few minutes. Always lock doors, screens, and windows to prevent uninvited access to your room.
Do not go inside your residence if you return and find that the door is ajar. Immediately notify the police.
Do not give anyone a key to your room. If you lose your room key, report it immediately to your Residence Advisor.
Do not leave valuables in plain sight. Register, engrave, mark, and/or photograph all your valuables including bicycles, stereos, jewelry,vehicles, computers, etc.
Never let strangers into your hall. This puts you and others at risk.
Be aware of suspicious persons and activities. If you observe someone or something suspicious, notify the residence hall staff and the UTA Police Department.
Report any obscene, annoying, or threatening telephone calls to the UTA Police Department.