Personal Safety

Don't take your safety for granted. While we have a relatively safe campus, you
shouldn't become complacent. Sometimes bad things happen even here in our community.
Oftentimes in the news you hear people say something like "I didn't think things like this
could happen here." You must realize that anything can happen to anyone at anytime.

Personal safety tips ------

If you're going out, tell someone where you're going, with whom you will be with, and when
you expect to return. If your plans change, let this person know so they won't be worried.

Until you get to really know and feel safe with your date, it's a good idea to keep your first few
dates in public places - such as a restaurant, movie, or concert - before you agree to be alone with
him in a one-on-one situation oftentimes in his apartment or car where he will be in control.

Be careful about people you have just met at a party or a bar. While you may have enjoyed their
company, you should not agree to ride alone with them in a car. Other than the brief time you have
talked with them, they are complete strangers and you should not get into a one-on-one situation with
them -- especially in a vehicle where they are in control by driving.

Watch your intake of alcohol and drugs and those of your date or others you socialize with. You want
to have a clear-head so you can make good judgment calls.

Watch your drink at a party or bar to prevent someone from slipping something into - such as a "date
rape drug". Never accept a drink in a glass or bottle that you didn't see poured or opened. Never leave
your drink unattended.

Be careful at parties - avoid pairing off with someone alone in a room. Assaults often happen with loud
parties going on in the same building.

Trust your instincts. If your gut tells you something is not right, go with your gut feelings. Don't be afraid
to make a scene if necessary. A few minutes of embarrassment/awkwardness is nothing compared to being
an assault victim.

When going out at night, travel with others. Don't separate from the group and go it alone.

Just like your mother has often told you - it's not a good idea to be out late at night. Chances of encountering
a "bad guy" are great, and chances of someone coming to your aid are small -- whether you're out celebrating
with your friends at the local bars or just going to the local WalMart or Kroger.

Immediately report to the police any suspicious persons or vehicles.