Safety Tips

Safety Tips

Parking Safely

  • Always lock your vehicle.
  • Keep your windows completely closed.
  • During evening hours park in the most well-lighted areas.  Remember, UW-Stout commuter lots don't require a permit after 4 PM.  Even if you have parked on a city street during the day, move your vehicle to a Stout commuter lot after 4 PM.  Note: housing parking lots are regulated 24 hours and an overnight prohibition begins in commuter lots at 2 AM.
  • Consider, too, your path of travel to and from your vehicle and park in an area that will allow you to walk to your destination along the most well traveled, well lit walkways.
  • Do not park in isolated locations or behind obstructions that block you from the view of others.
  • Consider the time when you will return to your vehicle when choosing a parking location.  It may be dark when you return.  It is often advisable to relocate your vehicle before dark to a closer parking space for your return after dark.
  • Be aware!  As you approach your vehicle, OBSERVE EVERYTHING.  Look around and under the vehicle as you approach.  Quickly check inside, both front and back seat.
  • Have your keys in hand as you approach your vehicle.  Don't linger, get right in and immediately lock your car.
  • Trust your instincts, leave at the first sign of danger and call university Police at 232-2222.
  • If possible, ask a classmate or friend to accompany you to your vehicle.  Use the buddy system!
  • Carry small loads at a time.  Keep your hands free.
  • Avoid parking beside high-profile vehicles such as trucks or vans.
  • Never leave your mail visible within your vehicle.
  • Women should consider purchasing an inexpensive "masculine" item to leave visible in their vehicle.
  • Be aware of your surroundings.  Walk with confidence and purpose.  When a criminal selects a victim, in many cases he's looking for someone who appears vulnerable or out of place.
  • Do not leave tempting valuables or property visible inside your vehicle.  Lock these items out of sight in your trunk or leave them at home.

You are strongly encouraged to always think about your safety, both when parked on campus and elsewhere.  Parking in urban settings and parking garages pose special considerations. 

Driving Safety Tips

  • Never roll down your window to talk to a stranger.  If required, roll the window down only enough to be heard.
  • Do not stop to aid disabled motorists.  Telephone for help instead.
  • Never go with strangers and never go with a stranger who offers help.  Instead, ask them to call for help for you.
  • If your vehicle becomes disabled, attach a white cloth to the door handle or antenna.  Lock the doors and stay in the vehicle.  If someone stops to help, don't open your door or window.  Ask the person to please telephone for help.
  • It's a good idea to carry a "Call Police" banner in your vehicle, and cell phones are perfect for requesting aid.
  • If you believe you're being followed, drive immediately to the nearest police station, or well lit, well populated service area.  Either stay in your vehicle and sound the horn or immediately go into a safe space and call the police.
  • When stopped at an intersection leave enough space so that you can see the tires of the car in front of you.  That will allow you to pull around that vehicle and not be blocked in. 

Avoiding Road Rage