October 2003

Briefly speaking: Safety tips for campus

	Lt. Greg Murphy says safety presentations are an important part of the UC Davis Police Department's efforts to prevent crime. (Debbie Aldridge/UC Davis)

UC Davis is known for being a relatively safe campus in a town with below-average crime levels.

But the UC Davis Police Department wants parents and students to know that vigilance is always important and that the department has many suggestions on how to improve personal safety.

Lt. Greg Murphy describes outreach efforts as an essential component of the department's Crime Prevent Unit. The unit conducts safety and security surveys and presents educational programs -- many in residence halls -- on crime prevention topics ranging from drug and alcohol awareness to personal safety.

Reduce your risk

The police department's Web site also offers tips on reducing the risk of other crimes, including bike theft.

Below are some examples of personal safety tips provided by the department that you may find helpful to pass along to your student and to keep in mind for yourself.

• Always be alert to your surroundings.
• Trust your instincts; avoid people and situations that make you nervous.
• Stay in well-lighted areas as much as possible.
• Walk confidently and at a steady pace, making eye contact with people when walking.
• On the street, do not respond to strangers attempting to initiate conversation.
• Whenever possible, travel with a friend.

Safety escorts available

If a student is walking on campus or to nearby residential areas after dark, he or she needn't walk alone. The department provides safety escorts year-round. The service is available by calling (530) 752-1727.

The Campus Violence Prevention Program, a unit of the police department, is also a valuable resource. It provides 24-hour crisis intervention, advocacy services, support groups and educational programming aimed at reducing incidents of sexual violence, relationship violence and hate.

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