This is a series of safety tips from Boson University, but most of them still apply to us as well. We know we are grown-ups, and we are in Des Moines, a lovely mid-western city, but it won't hurt to be cautious, right?
Bicycle Safety
- Always wear a helmet.
- Learn, use, and obey traffic signals. Remember, bikers must obey the same traffic laws as motor vehicle operators.
- If riding at night, use reflectors and lights.
- Give pedestrians the right of way.
- Ride defensively. Watch for cars and car doors opening.
- Do not weave in and out of traffic.
- Slow down at intersections and look both ways before crossing.
- Keep your bike well maintained.
- Always lock your bike with a strong lock in good condition.
- Register your bike with the Boston University Police Department (BUPD); call 617.353.2121.
Pedestrian Safety
- Be careful when crossing streets and “T” tracks.
- Use pedestrian crosswalks.
- Always look for cars, bikes, and trolleys before crossing the street.
- Always be alert to your surroundings. Take care when using personal electronic devices, as they limit your awareness.
- At night, walk in well-lit areas.
- Use the Escort Security Service (811 for Drake Security) or walk with a friend.
Theft and Larceny Safety
- Always lock and secure your door(s) and windows.
- Do not leave valuables unattended.
- Record all serial numbers of valuable possessions.
- Register your laptop with the BUPD . ---Not sure Drake has the similar service, but you can check home owner insurance, I have that as a bonus to my car insurance.
- Report suspicious activity to the Drake Security.
- Use campus emergency blue light phones.
- Do not lend your DUID card to anyone.
Sexual Assault and Rape Safety Tips
- Avoid walking alone after dark—use the Escort Security Service or travel in groups.
- When going to a party or a bar, always use the “buddy system.”
- Be aware of blue emergency phone locations.
- Use your peephole to identify anyone who knocks on your door before you open it. If you do not recognize someone, do not open your door.
- Make a safety plan with friends. Tell them where you are going and when you will be home.
- Carry a cell phone, and change to use a pay phone.
- Do not allow yourself to be left alone in an unfamiliar situation.
- Avoid excessive use of alcohol and drugs.
- Do not drink anything that you did not open or mix yourself.
- Trust your instincts.
Take Responsibility for Your Personal Safety
Staying safe on and off campus requires common-sense precautions and attention to your surroundings.- Carry your DUID card at all times, but don’t carry your keys and DUID on the same key ring or holder.
- Use the Escort Security Service .
- Always secure personal items. Never leave your valuables unattended.
- Stay off the frozen Charles River during winter months.
- Wear protective gear when rollerblading, skateboarding, and biking.
- Stay off rail/train tracks.
- Register your bike with the Drake University Police Department . A registered bike is more likely to be recovered if stolen.
- Report suspicious persons or activity to the BUPD.
- Log important (DUPD, 911, your RA, cab company, etc.) numbers into your cell phone.
On-Campus Residents
- Always lock your door.
- If you lose your key or it is stolen, report it immediately to your residence hall office, your resident assistant, or the resident assistant on call.
- Do not leave valuables unsecured in your room.
- Do not let strangers enter or sign in to your residence.
- Do not prop open doors.
Out and About
- Do not carry large sums of cash.
- When walking on campus, follow well-lit paths and avoid alleyways.
- Use caution when crossing streets and the MBTA tracks.
- Avoid walking alone late at night – instead, use the Escort Security Service or travel in groups.
- Be alert to your surroundings and know the locations of the Emergency Blue Light Phones.
- If you go out alone, tell your roommates where you are going and when you expect to be back. If your plans change, call your roommates.
- Check your directions in advance and know where you are going.
- Walk purposefully.
- Be cautious of people asking for money or assistance.
- If your wallet is stolen, report the loss to the DUPD immediately and contact your credit card companies as well.
- Avoid potentially dangerous situations and neighborhoods.
- Don’t dart in front of traffic to catch a “T” or bus.
- If you feel uneasy or threatened, change direction, cross the street, locate and use a blue light emergency phone, or enter a store or place of business.
- When jogging or walking, exercise care when wearing headphones. You are less aware of your surroundings when wearing headphones and are more vulnerable to accidents or to being victimized.
