The Department of Public Safety has assembled the following suggestions to help protect yourself and your property while you are here at the University.
Remember: If you are the victim of a crime, you are encouraged to report it as soon as possible:
- Emergencies: 508-999-9191 or x9191
- Information: 508-999-8107 or x8107
- Anonymous Tip Line: 508-999-8477 or x8477
Physical Safety
- Always stay with people you trust.
- Do not go anywhere with a stranger -- even during the day.
- Carry a cell phone at all times in case of an emergency.
- Call home periodically to let family members know you are safe.
- Keep your identification with you.
- Be aware of local laws regarding alcohol.
- Do not drink and drive.
- Property Safety
- Always lock and bolt your hotel room when you are inside it.
- Do not accept drinks from strangers
Property Safety
- Always keep your hotel room locked.
- Try to leave valuables at home.
- Lock any valuables you do take in the hotel safe.
- Beware of scam artists or pick pockets.
- If your cell phone or credit card is stolen, report it immediately and cancel service.
- Do not carry or accept packages from strangers.
Traveling out of the Country
- Keep your passport in a secure location.
- Bring a photocopy of your passport.
- Know that laws and safety standards may be different.
- Leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home.
- Familiarize yourself with local laws and safety concerns at the State Department website.
- Never leave your luggage unattended.
Personal safety
- Always walk in groups; don't go out alone, especially at night
- Use the campus shuttle service
- Use the Library Safety Escorts (from the Library to the parking lot), available from 6pm until closing
- Avoid short-cuts; walk in well-lit areas
- Keep your motor vehicles locked; try to park near a light
- Have your key ready when you approach your car or home
- Female students: attend a class
- Carry a cell phone
- Do not accept drinks from strangers; the drinks may be drugged
- Report suspicious persons and activities: x8107 or 508-999-8107
Keep your property safe
To avoid becoming a victim, remember to lock your doors when leaving your vehicles. This is also a good practice when leaving your rooms or offices.
Electronics are tempting targets to thieves.
- What to do if your cell phone is stolen
- Remove all laptops, I-Pods and cell phones from your vehicles.
- GPS devices: remove mounts, suction cups and wipe area on wind shield where GPS was attached.
Do not leave in your vehicle:
- Purses, wallets, money and books
If you have any questions please email Officer Steven Mello or call 508-999-8770.
- Keep your rooms locked
- Do not allow strangers into your residence halls
- Never prop open your doors
- Keep money, jewelry and other valuables hidden
- Lock valuables in the trunk of your car
- Report broken locks and windows
- Have your valuables engraved