Safety rules to remember

There is nothing more important than personal safety, so here are some important tips on how to be safe on and around campus. You never know when they might save your property, or your life.

Property safety

Secure your valuables.

Do not leave backpacks, laptops, cell phones, etc. unattended, not even for a second.

Lock your room or apartment when you leave.

Lock and secure bicycles, and register them with the Campus Public Safety Office.

Lock your car and do not leave any valuables in your vehicle.

Secure your mail, credit card bills and anything else with identifying information.

Contact the Post Office to have your mail forwarded if you move.

Do not keep your Social Security card in your wallet.

Real-life testament: Michelle*, junior

After moving out of her apartment and before studying abroad, Michelle became a victim of identity theft. The offender was able to obtain her personal information and create forged checks in her name.

Michelle was out over $1,600 before she even noticed. The offender allegedly picked up the mail from her previous residence and was able to get bank and other information needed to successfully forge her name.

Incidences such as this are not uncommon. Do not forget to tie up all your loose ends.

Personal safety

Always use the buddy system, even if it seems like overkill.

Have the Campus Safety Office emergency number programmed into your phone: 503-725-4404
Call campus security or the police if you have an incident with anyone.

Take note of all the blue phones around campus, which connect you with campus security.

Make note of what you have on your person that could be used as a weapon, if needed: a metal water bottle, a textbook.

Keep your cell phone on you, within easy reach.

Never hesitate to call someone if you feel unsafe.

Utilize the CPSO’s Escort Service if walking alone on campus at night: 503-725-4407

Keep a cab number in your phone in case you need out of a situation.

Real-life testament: university employees

A male university employee, who did not wish to be named, noted that a few months ago, a female employee was alone in Neuberger Hall at about 6:10 a.m. when she was she was physically assaulted and had her purse stolen.

At that time in the morning, people are commuting to class or work and probably would not think twice about the presence of danger. It is very important to walk with groups or take the precautions, even if it is during the day.

Party safety

Never drink and drive! Have a designated driver or the number for a cab company.

Keep an eye on your drink at all times and do not accept drinks from strangers.

Do not drink from already open containers.

Leave your valuables at home when going to a party.

Use the buddy system.

Real-life testament: Henry*, sophomore

Henry went out with a group of his friends to a house party on a Thursday night. He and his friends smoked a bowl with some random people they met at the party.

After a while, Henry and his friends felt effects stronger than what they were used to. Henry felt so awful that his friends drove him to the hospital thinking he had possibly overdosed. At the hospital, he found out the marijuana he smoked was laced with methamphetamines.

What may have been a typical smoke-sesh turned out to be a close call.

If you choose to deal with illegal substances, know what you’re getting yourself into. And do not drive when high!

*Names have been changed at the students’ requests.