1. Always keep your belongings with you
The easiest way for someone to take your belongings is if your belongings are not being watched. To prevent theft, never leave your backpack, computer, and other items unattended. Ask a friend to watch your items if you need to run to the bathroom or leave the area, even if it is only a short period of time or in a busy location like the library.
2. Limit headphone use
When you are absorbed by a song, it is easy to get lost in the music and not pay attention to your surroundings. You should always try to stay alert and be aware of your surroundings when you are commuting from one place to another. If you want to listen to music, you can play it directly from your phone's speaker or use one earbud instead so that you can still give attention to your surroundings.
3. If possible, always walk with a friend
Coordinate with roommates so that you can have someone to walk home with. Walking home with someone else can help ease anxiety and make you feel safer and reduces the chances for someone to approach you. There are also several late-night transportation services available for students.
4. If you are walking alone, let your friends know your plans
If you are in a situation that requires you to walk alone, notify a roommate or another friend in Ann Arbor about your plan and when they should expect you to arrive home. There are location services that you can share those with your friends or roommates so that they can track you on your walk home like “Find My Friends.” Avoid calling someone who is not located close by. Someone outside of Ann Arbor wouldn't be able to help you as quickly if you were to encounter danger.
The Division of Public Safety and Security has implemented empowerment self-defense workshops that are free to students! The goal is to leave you better equipped to deal with everything from harassment to potentially violent people to sexual assault. Participants will take part in verbal exercises, physical drills, and discussions. Check out safety tips provided by DPSS or email [email protected] for more information about workshops you can take or organize for your friends.
-Contributed by Samantha G. - Neighborhood Ambassador