2008 Woodie Awards
Better safe than sorry
Brian J. Egerton
Issue date: 10/6/08 Section: Features
Many UIC students think that they are immune from major crime on campus, yet recently there have been a number of crimes committed in and around the UIC neighborhood. Fortunately, there are a number of simple things students can do to prevent the likelihood of becoming a victim.
One important way to remain safe is to follow the advice of the UIC Police Department. The UICPD is on call 24/7, 365 days a year. The police are your main resource against crime.
Some of their tips include calling the emergency number 5-5555 on the more than 1,000 strategically-placed campus emergency call boxes. Second, always be aware of your surroundings and use common sense to avoid risky situations. If out late, stick to well-lighted paths, and if you feel unsafe call the police for an escort. Also use the Red Car service if you are traveling late at night between the East and West campuses be dialing (312) 996-6800. You can also program the police number (312)-996-HELP into your cell phone in case of an emergency.
If you are threatened, try to remain calm and hand over your possessions (you do not want to escalate a property crime into a violent crime). Make sure to get an accurate description of the attacker and any vehicle.
More students have recently been victims of robberies and assaults. One student, in fact, was walking late at night when he was mugged by four men:
"Three of them came from behind, pushed me down, and began kicking and stomping me… I lost my wallet and cell phone from the attack and I got a black eye and some bruises," said the student.
To avoid this violent type of situation, travel in a large group when out at night; many robberies/muggings are crimes of opportunity. Second, assess your surroundings and the individuals around you - especially if you are out at night.
For more information on how to stay safe, visit the UIC Police website at www.uic.edu/depts/police/index.html or call (312) 996-HELP
One important way to remain safe is to follow the advice of the UIC Police Department. The UICPD is on call 24/7, 365 days a year. The police are your main resource against crime.
Some of their tips include calling the emergency number 5-5555 on the more than 1,000 strategically-placed campus emergency call boxes. Second, always be aware of your surroundings and use common sense to avoid risky situations. If out late, stick to well-lighted paths, and if you feel unsafe call the police for an escort. Also use the Red Car service if you are traveling late at night between the East and West campuses be dialing (312) 996-6800. You can also program the police number (312)-996-HELP into your cell phone in case of an emergency.
If you are threatened, try to remain calm and hand over your possessions (you do not want to escalate a property crime into a violent crime). Make sure to get an accurate description of the attacker and any vehicle.
More students have recently been victims of robberies and assaults. One student, in fact, was walking late at night when he was mugged by four men:
"Three of them came from behind, pushed me down, and began kicking and stomping me… I lost my wallet and cell phone from the attack and I got a black eye and some bruises," said the student.
To avoid this violent type of situation, travel in a large group when out at night; many robberies/muggings are crimes of opportunity. Second, assess your surroundings and the individuals around you - especially if you are out at night.
For more information on how to stay safe, visit the UIC Police website at www.uic.edu/depts/police/index.html or call (312) 996-HELP
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
A. Pohovey
posted 10/10/08 @ 10:21 AM CST
Thanks for reminding and alerting those on campus to take the necessary cautions. We never think that this will happen to us until it "is too late" and only then, wish we had been more careful. (Continued…)
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