Campus Safety Tips

Though Washington University in St. Louis maintains a relatively safe campus, the city of St. Louis can be busy, populated and potentially dangerous.It is of utmost importance that while you are here, you remain safe.For your personal safety, follow the belowtips for safety while on or off-campus.

SAFETY TIPS ON CAMPUS

  1. Lock your room door whenever you leave, even if it’s for a short time. Be sure to lock your door when you will be showering or sleeping.
  2. Never prop open exterior doors. If you see a door propped, close it.
  3. Don’t allow people you do not know to “tailgate” behind you into the residence hall.
  4. Never leave your laptop computer, textbooks, cell phone, book bag, purse or other valuables unattended.
  5. Avoid studying alone in a campus building.
  6. Take note of the locations of Blue Light Emergency Telephones.
  7. If you see a suspicious person or someone you don’t believe should be in or around the building call campus police immediately.

SAFETY TIPS OFF CAMPUS

  1. When leaving campus, always travel in groups of three or more.
  2. Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially after dark.If you must travel alone at night, use the Campus Circulator.
  3. Always walk or jog in a familiar area.
  4. If you exercise outdoors on a regular basis, vary your route and schedule.
  5. Take note of the locations of Blue Light Emergency Telephones along your route.
  6. Tell someone where you are going and when you can be expected to return. Make sure to sign out on the “Leaving Campus Sign-Out Form.”
  7. Carry a cellular telephone with you and use it if you feel unsafe.
  8. Carry a whistle to summon help when you walk or run. WUPD offers free safety whistles.
  9. Always choose a well-lit path, and avoid dark or vacant areas.
  10. Do not take shortcuts through alleys, parks or empty lots.
  11. Keep your hands as free as possible.
  12. Try not to overload yourself with packages or other items.
  13. Do not wearheadphones while walking or jogging.
  14. Have your access card or keys ready when returning to your residence hall or apartment.
  15. If you are confronted by a thief, hand over what is demanded and do not give chase.
  16. Don’t stop and give money to panhandlers; just keep walking.

Washington University Police Department (WUPD): 314-935-5555