Safety Tips from Campus Police

Crime has no respect for individuals. Everyone at Southwest has a responsibility to contribute to the well-being of the college community. No single group or organization can possibly prevent crime on behalf of all. By working together, we can help to ensure a safe and secure environment for the college community. Safety is maintained through the promotion of basic respect for individual rights and personal property at all campuses. The responsibility for creating a secure environment is shared by students, faculty and staff.

When Walking:

• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Walk only in well-lit, commonly traveled routes.
• Walk confidently and be alert, not with your head down.
• Carry a whistle to use if threatened.
• Have your door or car keys ready. Carry them in your hand, not in your pocket or purse. Keys can be used as a weapon against an attacker by using them to strike the assailant in the eyes and face.

In Parking Lots:

• Avoid keeping valuables in your car. Even backpacks, CDs and cell phones can be a magnet for thieves.
• Always remove your keys and lock your car.
• Check the area before leaving your car at night.
• Look around and under your car when approaching it.
• Check the back seat of your vehicle before entering.

Keep in mind that, while absolute safety cannot be guaranteed, there are many steps we can take as individuals to increase the safety of the college campus for everyone. Make mental notes of the emergency phones around campus. For emergencies, red phones are located on each floor of the campuses. Activation of this phone opens a direct line between the caller and Police Services 24 hours a day on the Union Avenue and Macon Cove campuses.