By
Arek Sarkissian II
Arizona Summer Wildcat
Theft biggest campus crime problem
Protection and prevention is the first defense against becoming a victim of crime while on campus, UAPD officials said.
With the daily population of the University of Arizona exceeding 50,000 people, the campus has grown to a size that leaves some students concerned about their safety.
"At night, I never walk alone. It makes me feel safer," said Juni Chi, an economics senior.
Although campus crime statistics are lower than the Tucson area, UAPD Sgt. Michael Smith said the vulnerability to crime is still just as existent.
"Theft is the largest crime on campus and it's because people take their safety for granted," Smith said. "They're at a place like the Student Union or library and they let their guard down. The next thing you know, their stuff is gone."
The UAPD Web site has several tips for students on how to protect their belongings, including:
Never leave any personal items unattended in public, especially in areas such as the Student Union, the libraries and classrooms.
Keep valuables out of sight, especially from the front door of dorm rooms or any ground level windows.
Keep bicycles securely locked at all times and make sure it's properly locked to a bike rack or parking block only. Also, bicycles should be registered with Parking and Transportation Services to aid police in a possible recovery should it be stolen.
Smith warned to keep expensive bicycles at home.
"No lock is undefeatable," Smith said. "Leave your high-dollar bike at home for the weekend. Just bring something to get to class with."
UA Parking and Transportation Services will provide free bicycle registration on the UA Mall during the beginning of the semester. They can also engrave bicycles with any identifying information to aid in its possible recovery should it be stolen. Parking and Transportation Services will also provide bicycle registration throughout the year Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at its office, 888 N. Euclid Blvd.
Protecting yourself outweighs any object that you might own, Smith said.
Smith also advised students to use caution when it comes to protecting themselves against personal danger, and UAPD had these tips to offer:
If for any reason you feel someone is following or threatening you, walk toward a well-lit area where there are people and look over your shoulder to let the follower know you are aware of their presence.
Never prop open any exterior doors. These doors are locked to keep strangers from illegally entering a building or room.
If you might be walking on campus at night, walk in well-lit areas only and use the buddy system by walking with as many people as possible.
If you plan on going out, let your roommate, a friend or a staff member know where you're going, with whom and when you expect to return. If you choose to stay later, call to let them know.
Car owners on campus should always keep the doors locked, park in a well-lit area and when you approach the vehicle, have the keys ready. Upon entering, check the front and back seats as well.
Should you receive a disturbing or obscene phone call, HANG UP. If these phone calls are repeated, UAPD will further assist them.
"If you get an obscene phone call you should try dialing *57 which can trace a call if it was made on campus," Smith said. "If you're off campus, you should try *69. That's the first thing we're going to ask you if you call us for help."
Students can also reach UAPD from any of the 16 "blue light phones" scattered around campus. If there is no time to wait, knock the phone off the cradle and a police officer will respond to that location. If a normal phone is within reach, call 911.
Smith said people often get confused while they are on campus as to which department - either UAPD or Tucson Police Department - they should call if they are in trouble.
"People get into trouble and they wonder where they are and which department they should call," Smith said. "Don't wonder where you are - just dial 911. The operator will decide on the department that should handle it."
Some students feel safe on campus with the resources offered to those in need of help.
"I always feel safe," said Thapelo Kalaben, a management information systems junior. "With all the blue telephones around, I never feel unsafe,"
UA's Associated Students provides a safe ride program, which is offered during the evening hours from dusk to 12:55 a.m., Sunday through Thursday. The service can be contacted at 621-SAFE.
For any more questions regarding information on campus safety, access the UAPD website at www.uapd.arizona.edu, or call at 621-UAPD.
