Safety Tips - Practice Prevention
The University at Buffalo works hard to ensure a safe campus and community environment. These tips are intended for our students, faculty, staff and other community members to help us stay safe on campus and off.
CALL POLICE IMMEDIATELY if something happens to you or someone else, or you notice anything out of the ordinary. It is important to report incidents immediately. For all emergencies on UB campuses call 645- 2222. For off-campus emergencies, call 911.
Make the call. Program (716) 645-2222 University Police into your cell phone so you have it at your fingertips in the event of an emergency on campus. If you see a crime in progress or even something suspicious, don't hesitate, make the call.
Protect your property. Larceny of unattended property is the most common crime on campus and is completely preventable. Never leave items like your backpack, laptop or cell phone unattended - even if it's just for a minute. Make it a habit to take these valuables with you. Lock your dorm room or office every time you leave.
Grab it. Close it. Lock it. Parking lots can be common targets for thieves. Never leave valuables in your car or items in plain view. Take items like GPS devices, removable stereo faceplates, and electronics with you. Wipe suction cup marks from windows and remove other visible indicators that valuables might be contained inside. Keep your windows up and doors locked.
Report suspicious activity. Trust your instincts and report suspicious activity to University Police whenever something doesn't look right to you. Take a moment to note the description and exact location of suspicious persons and call immediately - don't wait.
Don't walk alone. Take advantage of SBI Safety Services. They offer walking escorts on both campuses, as well as shuttle services on and near the South Campus. Check them out at www.sbihealtheducation.org or walk with friends or classmates.
Be a "designated thinker." Driving is not the only risk associated with alcohol consumption. Make sure you and your friends remain safe and unharmed while attending off campus parties. Don't consume anything from open containers or mixed drinks with unknown ingredients. Make sure your friends stay together, and leave together. Be a good neighbor to city residents and consider the risks and potential impacts of your actions.
Empower yourself. Enroll in a self-defense course. UB offers self-defense programs for women only and coed. Sign up with a friend and empower yourself. These courses are designed to give you the tools that may help you protect yourself.
Keep personal information private. Avoid becoming a victim of identity theft by carrying only necessary items in your wallet or purse. Do not carry your social security card. Don't give personal information to solicitors.
Protect your wheels. If you ride a bike, register it with Parking & Transportation Services free of charge. Registering your bike helps improve the likelihood of recovery if stolen. Invest in a high-quality, hardened steel U lock and use it secure the frame to a designated bike rack.
