Crime Prevention Information

Panhandlers

If solicited by an individual for personal charity, don't give cash; refer them to local assistance resources or offer to buy the individual food or drink. A local assistance resource is within two blocks of the University campus.
Campus information on reported crimes and incidents is maintained and regularly updated by the Safety and Security Services office. This station is located outside Dougan Addition, DOU-180. Crime related incidents are also disclosed in the UW Tacoma campus newspaper, The Ledger and electronically mailed on student and staff list serves. For annual campus crime statistics, review Campus Right-to-Know Data

BE ALERT!
It’s normal to get comfortable with your surroundings at work & at home … that's when you can get hurt! Trust your instincts!
If you suspect something is wrong, or if a situation seems dangerous, you may be right! Do not dismiss suspicious people, cars or situations. Report them immediately.

In recent years the cost of college course textbooks has increased dramatically. In most cases they retain a cash value after they have been purchased new. Because of this, books and backpacks have become a target of thieves who know they can convert the books to cash. A book can be replaced; notes, handouts, etc. are difficult to replace, especially right before a big examination.
Never leave your books, purses, backpacks and any other item of personal property unattended, ANYTIME, ANYWHERE.
Mark the top, bottom, and sides of the pages with your name. After you've made certain you have the correct texts, pick a page number, and write your name as close to the spine of the book on the same page in every volume you own.
Write your name and driver license number inside backpacks or book bags in several inconspicuous locations.

Don't get out & walk unless absolutely necessary.
Raise the hood, put on emergency flashers and if possible tie a white cloth to you antenna or outside mirror.
Stay inside the car with windows up and doors locked. If you have a cell phone, call for help If not, ask anyone who stops to call the police, sheriff or nearest service station.
After you call for help, stay in your vehicle.
What to do when a Good Samaritan arrives

Wear comfortable shoes & clothing
Don't display money or contents of purses
Don't set a pattern when walking or jogging
Walk against traffic
Where to walk on the sidewalk in business districts
Don't give money to panhandlers, acknowledge them but say "NO" & don't enter into a discussion with those who try to persuade you to give money
Always look around and be aware of your surroundings at all times
There is safety in numbers; Always try to walk with someone
Choose open well lighted and well traveled areas, avoid dark vacant deserted areas. Plan in advance and vary your route.
Be assertive in your walk, using a firm and steady pace. (A passive or fearful walk gives an image of vulnerability and sets you up as an easy target.
Walk facing traffic; be cautious of drivers who stop to talk to you. If a driver asks for directions, do not get close to the car.
Go into a public place if you need to ask directions.
Dress so you can walk or run easily to avoid an attack.
If you're being followed: Turn to look at the person, it shows you won't be taken by surprise.
Change direction: If someone is following you on foot, cross the street and vary your pace. If the person is in a car, turn and walk in the oppisite direction.
Go into a store or other public place: If a person follows you, ask to use the phone to call for help.

Keep purse, wallet, or other valuable items with you or locked up at all times
Never leave keys or access card lying about, hidden or in an unlocked desk drawer
Never leave change or cash around desk that is not secured
Never write down lock combinations, PIN numbers or passwords where others can find them
If you notice suspicious persons contact security
Know your co-workers & look out for each other & ask a co-worker to watch your desk when you are gone for a period of time

Remember, your goals are escape and survival: Escaping and surviving an attack are the most important considerations. Keep them in mind as you act and react. If an attacker wants your valuables, give them up. Valuables can be replaced--your life can't.
Decide now what you are capable of: flight, fight or cooperate: Only you can decide the best response in an emergency. Be realistic about your ability to protect yourself. Screaming, hitting or biting may help you escape, but could also expose you to greater harm. If you do resist, attract attention by blowing a whistle or screaming. Run, hit bite or use self-defense, if your trained. Do whatever comes natural--and do it immediately.
Remain calm as possible & listen to commands

Sgt. Bailey

University of Washington Tacoma

12/19/02

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