Suggestions for ensuring safety in public:
- Avoid working or studying alone in a building at night
- Stay in well-lit area, walk mid-point between curbs and buildings and away from alleys and bushes
- Don't carry extra credit cards or money
- Walk with someone whenever possible-use the buddy system
- Utilize the Student Security Service if traveling after dark
- If your purse or wallet is snatched, don't fight back. Turn it over rather than risk personal injury and report the incident immediately
- Do not place purses, portable stereos, TV sets, or other valuables near windows, which can be smashed by a tempted burglar
- Carry a whistle or pocket alarms. This can serve as a reminder to exercise caution and can alert anyone in the area that you need help
- Keep an inventory of all of your valuable possessions. Through "Operation Identification," a statewide crime prevention program, you can borrow engraving tools from YSU Police by calling: 330-941-3527
- Keep doors locked, even if you're are only away for a few moments
- Do not mark your key chain with any identifying information that can lead to theft
- Get to know your neighbors. Establish a neighborhood watch system and share information on suspicious circumstances
- Don't hesitate to call YSU Police with any safety concerns
- If you have an Emergency call 911 immediately
Suggestions for ensuring safety when in a building, office or laboratory:
- When working late, make sure doors are locked
- Keep your purse in a locked cabinet or drawer. Never leave it on or underneath a desk
- If you live around campus, use the escort service when traveling to and from work
- Avoid using stairs in remote sections of a building
- Never prop doors open, especially fire doors, even for a short time
- Do not hold the door open for strangers after normal business hours
Tips to assist you in not becoming a victim of a crime
- Report any and all suspicious activity to the Youngstown State University Police Department immediately
- Make others (friends or family) aware of all your travel plans
- Be prepared by having a "what if" plan
- Keep all of your valuables secured and out of plain view
- Walk with confidence and you will appear as a less vulnerable target
- Always use well lit areas if at all possible
- Avoid using any types of drugs or alcohol as these hinder your ability to act
- Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas (use the buddy system)
- Be alert of your surroundings at all times and don't be distracted (e.g.- texting while walking)
- Know what your physical limitations are
- And participate in a self defense/education course (contact us for more info)