Safety Tips

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Safety Tips

Burglary & Theft Prevention

General

  • Never put your safety at risk to protect your belongings.
  • Keep a photograph and detailed description of property of value.

Laptop/Phone/Tablet Theft Prevention

  • Enable tracking software on your devices.
  • Never leave your laptop, tablet, or phone in your car.
  • When outside of your home, always have visual contact with your devices.
  • Label your devices with your contact information.

Bicycle Theft Prevention

  • Secure your bicycle's frame (not a tire) with a U-lock to a bicycle rack.
  • Bicycles that not properly “parked” at a bicycle rack are more likely to be stolen.
  • Register your bicycle with LMU Public Safety.

Theft from Vehicle Prevention

  • Park your car in well-lit and busy areas, and always lock your car.
  • Park your car in the areas with high vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
  • Be discrete when loading your trunk; try to place valuables in your trunk before you get to your destination.
  • If you utilize valet, leave only the ignition key with the attendant.

Burglary Prevention

  • Close and lock your doors and windows when you are not home.
  • While away, create the illusion that you are at home (e.g. by keeping a light on).
  • In residence halls and apartment buildings, don't let strangers into your building.
  • Avoid propping doors open even if you are visiting a friend in a room nearby.
  • Always keep your keys and OneCard with you.  Do not leave them under a mat or in your mailbox.
  • Change the locks when you move into an off-campus apartment or house. 

Personal Safety

Victims are not responsible for the criminal acts of others; the victim is not to blame. The safety measures below are shared as reminders.

  • Look confident and purposeful when you walk. If possible, do not walk alone at night.  Any time you feel unsafe while moving about campus, request a Public Safety escort.
  • Have your OneCard and/or keys ready as you approach your home and/or vehicle.
  • Designate a sober friend when you are drinking.
  • Don’t accept drinks from other people, and be sure to open drink containers yourself. 
  • Be aware of what you are drinking; and keep it with you and covered at all times.
  • If you feel like the effect of the alcohol you are consuming is stronger than usual, stop drinking and get help right away.

At Home

  • If it looks as if someone has entered your room or apartment, do not go inside. If on campus, call Public Safety.  If off campus, call 9-1-1.
  • If a stranger knocks on your door, acknowledge them but do not open the door.  
  • Use only your last name and first initial on your door and mailbox.
  • If you receive an obscene or harassing phone call, hang up immediately. If the caller persists, contact Public Safety.
  • Report suspicious activity or persons on campus to DPS at (310) 338-2893 or 222 from a campus phone, or call 9-1-1. If off campus, call 9-1-1.

Ride Sharing

While ride sharing services are a convenient way to travel, the tips below are shared as safety considerations: 

  • Confirm the driver’s identity and vehicle from what is shown on the ride sharing app.
  • Check the driver’s rating and number of rides given.
  • Never pay with cash, even for tipping; always use your account on the app for payment.
  • Share your trip details with a family member or friend.
  • Use the LiveSafe App Safety Escort feature.
  • If possible, travel in a group while utilizing ride sharing services.
  • See “Personal Safety Tips.”

Sexual and Interpersonal Misconduct

If you are the victim of sexual or interpersonal misconduct:

  • Go to a safe place as soon as you can.
  • Call for help.
  • Preserve all physical evidence.
  • Keep a log.
  • Seek emergency medical and crisis treatment.
  • Get help abroad with ACE Travel Assistance Program.                     
    • Domestic: (855) 327-1414
    • International: 1 (630) 694-9764