Tips for staying safe on campus
In the shadows cast by the recent stabbing and robbery in the CU community this past week, many at the university are wondering just how safe they really are.
There is no definitive answer to this question; an individual’s safety at CU depends on his or her preparation and knowledge before venturing outdoors.
Sometimes safety does not rate high on the list of hot conversational topics. Here are some things to consider to ensure a safe journey.
>> Whenever possible, don’t go out alone after dark, advises CU Police Department spokesman Brad Wiesley.
The lone traveler is easy to spot and can be an easy target. A good general rule of thumb is not to wander around after drinking. When a person is drunk, he or she cannot apply the focus that is necessary for self-defense.
It is also good to know your neighborhood and be prepared for anything. The university has several emergency telephones located all over campus and the surrounding area indicated by blue lights. CUPD has maps of the locations of these phones available to students and faculty.
>> If someone approaches you while walking home and demands your wallet, do not simply hand it to them. A good technique is to throw the wallet away and let the assailant retrieve it. Then you can make tracks in the opposite direction.
>> If put into the trunk of a car, attempt to kick out the tail lights of the vehicle. Stick an arm out the hole and try to signal for help. The kidnapper will not be able to see, but those out on the street are likely to call for assistance.
>> If you think you hear a crying baby, do not investigate. There have been recent reports of the sounds of crying babies during the night near homes where women and children live alone.
Police believe these sounds to be recordings made by would-be intruders to lure folks out of their homes.
>> Obtain a safety whistle. The CUPD has these available and they make an easily detectable sound.
>> Consider buying a can of mace. While Wiesley does not recommend carrying weapons of this nature, mace can be a powerful deterrent.
>> Attend a self-defense class. CU Tae Kwon Do offers classes ranging from beginner to expert. To learn more, click here.
The most important thing is to be aware of your surroundings.
“Trust your instincts. If something seems wrong, it probably is,” Said Wiesley.
Contact Campus Press Staff Writer Andrew Frankel at andrew.frankel@thecampusspress.com.
