Ling's Wonderland: On and Off Campus Safety Tips

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.