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Guidelines for Campus Security

Safety pointers/recommendations while on campus, at home, or daily activities

Safety pointers/recommendations while on campus, at home, or daily activities 

• Download the Everbridge mobile safety app and sign up to receive campus alerts. For more information, Click Here.
• Park in a well-lit area. 
• Lock your vehicle. 
• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle. 
• When returning to your car after dark, check under your car and in the backseat before entering the car. 
• Drive with a partner, let someone know where you are going, and vary your route. 
• Tuck jewelry that might attract attention inside your clothes. 
• Make a list of all credit cards and account numbers. Report the loss or theft of your credit card or identification card to the police immediately. 
• Keep a personal inventory or photograph of your valuables. 
• Use PINs or biometrics to lock your cell phones to prevent anyone from accessing your contacts or private information. 
• Lock your doors at all times, even if you are leaving for a short period. 
• Do not advertise that you are not home by letting mail or newspapers accumulate on your doorstep or recording a revealing message on your answering machine. 
• Do not hide a spare key outside your door. 
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. 

Theft

College campuses and surrounding areas are frequent targets of thieves mainly because many students and employees carelessly leave doors unlocked and valuables unprotected. Regarding theft, as with crimes against the person, your best defense is vigilance. Recognize that danger exists and take precautions. Here are a few suggestions: 

• Keep your doors and windows locked. 
• Do not leave valuables unattended. 
• Do not keep large amounts of money in a purse or office. 
• Keep your checkbook, jewelry, and cash in a locked drawer. 
• Do not prop any doors open. 
• Report any suspicious individuals or behavior to the police 
• Make your property challenging to steal. 
• Remember, "See Something, Say Something." 

Assaults

Muggings, robberies, and other violent crimes may occur at any time. Your best defense is to remain alert at all times and be aware of the possibility that a crime could occur. If attacked, notify the police at once. Here are some suggestions to minimize chances of being a victim: 

• Never walk or jog alone, especially during the evening and early morning hours. Even if you are walking a short distance, call a friend to accompany you. 
• When you walk at night, select well-lighted areas where other people are present. 
• Avoid alleys and back streets. 
• Do not walk next to dense shrubbery or in other places where an attacker could hide. 
• Never hitchhike. 
• Always have your keys in hand, as you approach your front door or car. You will be less vulnerable because you can get inside quicker. 
• Carry a whistle to summon help. 
• Before you go anywhere, let your friends and family know where you are going and when you will return. Work out a system so that friends will notify the police if you do not return within a specified time. 
• Stay with your group at parties. Many attacks have occurred when the victim states, "Go on without me, I'll be fine." 
• Keep windows, screens, and doors locked at all times. 
• Report any suspicious individuals to the police. 
• Other disasters/drills

Emergency Management  

UMMC students and employees are expected to know and follow the institution's drill procedures found by visiting umc.edu/disasterplan.