Personal Safety
Be aware of those that are sharing the sidewalks and trails with you. Many of these people are exercising or walking somewhere just as you are but there may be someone who is looking for an opportunity to commit a crime. There are a few things you can do the help prevent yourself from becoming a victim.
- Take your cellular telephone if possible and make sure the battery is charged.
- Before you leave, always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return.
- Carry a driver's license or wear an identification tag. Remember pertinent medical information.
- Run or walk with a companion.
- Stay in a familiar area.
- Do not run or walk in a secluded area.
- Do not run or walk after dark, if you must exercise before sunrise or after dark consider a lighted track or an indoor track.
- Run or walk facing the traffic to observe approaching vehicles.
- If followed go to the nearest building or emergency telephone and contact law enforcement.
- Do not wear jewelry. Wear bright colored or reflective clothing to improve your visibility
- Carry a whistle or shrill alarm to summon help if needed.
- Vary your route and pattern of running or walking.
- Avoid running or walking near bushes where someone could hide.
- Take a key with you when you run or walk.
- Do not leave your door unlocked. Someone one may be watching to determine when the house is empty.
- Have your key ready before you reach your home.
- Do not wear headsets; it prevents you from hearing an approaching car or possible attacker.
If you are walking or running around or on Washburn University Campus and are being followed go to the nearest building or campus emergency phone and call Washburn University Police.
