Personal Safety

Your student’s safety on campus is vitally important to the University. The need for campus security is broader than personal safety. It is central to ISU’s educational mission. There are many steps students can take to protect themselves from crime. Many crimes occur because there was an opportunity for them to happen. For example, most crimes of theft and burglary are random, not calculated. They occur because students leave a residence hall door or a car door unlocked. On a campus like ISU, it is easy to think that nothing will happen. But crime can happen anywhere.

Students should follow these simple steps to reduce the chances of victimization:

Keep the door of rooms or apartments locked, whether at home or not, and be sure to check who is outside before opening the door.
Use precautions when going out after dark. Be aware of dimly lit areas and try to avoid them, or at least be prepared with an escape plan. If going out alone after dark cannot be avoided, students should tell someone where they are going and when they will be back. Again, be aware of surroundings—don’t get caught by surprise. Know the options.
When parking a car, be sure the doors are locked and windows rolled up. Don’t keep expensive items in clear view as this might invite theft.
If valuable items are brought to campus, make sure they are secured and keep a log of serial numbers for personal record. If these items are not covered by parents’ insurance, renter’s insurance may be an option. Bicycles can be registered through the Public Safety Department.
Engrave all items such as stereo and computer equipment. Engraving service is available through the Public Safety Department.
In a dating or social situation, remember that instincts are often right. Students should be sure their feelings are clearly communicated and understood. Define the limits of the relationship. Understand that when a person says “no” it means “no.”
Keep in mind that alcohol impairs judgment and slows reflexes and may contribute to a personal safety predicament. Stay aware, assess others, and be responsible.
Guns and weapons are prohibited on University property. That includes in cars, on persons, and in students’ rooms. Possession of a weapon, particularly a gun, can result in suspension from the University.
Students may find that at times they may have to walk on campus late at night and would be more comfortable with an escort. University police officers provide this service. To arrange for an escort call the Public Safety Department, 237-5555, 24-hours-a-day.
The Personal Safety Committee is a University committee charged with addressing campus personal safety issues. If students have concerns or issues they would like to see this committee address, contact the Public Safety Department, 237-4111, or the Office of Student Affairs, 237-3888.

Students who have been a victim of a crime or have been involved in a personal safety issue on the ISU campus are encouraged to report the incident to the Public Safety Department or some other University official. The following are resources available to students.

Public Safety Department.... 237-5555
Student Judicial Programs... 237-3800
Counseling Center.... 237-3939
Vigo County Crime Victim Assistance Program 462-3319 or 232-3801
Residence hall staff ..... in each building or 237-3993
Student Ombudsperson.... 237-8111
Emergency 911

The Indiana State University Public Safety Department is centrally located on campus at 210 North 6th Street. The mission of the Public Safety Department is to provide a professional, service-oriented department, which is proactive in reducing criminal opportunity and community anxiety, and which enhances the image of Indiana State University by maintaining a socially supportive environment conducive to the academic mission.

The Public Safety Department issues parking permits required for all students operating a vehicle on campus. Forms are available online and permits can be purchased at the Public Safety Web site at http://web.indstate.edu/pubsafetyStudents are encouraged to purchase the permit electronically to avoid long lines. For more information call 237-3888.

Contact

Personal Safety