Thousands of students will arrive on campus in the coming weeks, and the Macon State Police Department wants to make sure they stay safe. College campuses are generally safe places, but students should always take sensible precautions.

Shawn Douglas, chief of the Macon State Police Department, offers these tips for students as they begin fall semester classes.

1.    Make the call. Program the number of the Macon State College Police (478-471-2414) into your cell phone so you have it at your fingertips in the event of an emergency on campus. If you see a crime in progress or even something suspicious, don’t hesitate, make the call. In true emergencies dial 911from your phone or 9911 from a campus phone.

2.    Empower yourself. Enroll in a self-defense course. Macon State College offers self-defense and sexual assault defense programs including R.A.D. Sign up with a friend and empower yourself. These courses are designed to give you the tools that may help save your life.

3.    Don’t walk alone. Take advantage of the Macon State College safety escort service or walk with friends or classmates.

4.    Protect your property. Never leave items like your backpack, laptop or cell phone unattended-even if it’s just for a minute. This includes restrooms and the library. Make it a habit to take these valuables with you.

5.    Report solicitors. Magazine subscriptions, donation requests, spa packages and “earn money now” schemes are some of the common methods criminals use to take your money. Avoid solicitors’ scams by politely saying no and immediately notifying college police. Never provide a solicitor with your personal information.

6.    While waiting for class. Stay awake and keep your personal belongings close to you. Sit near the door of the class and stay awake. If someone’s harassing you, don’t hesitate; notify a faculty or staff member of call police.

7.    Grab it. Close it. Lock it. College parking lots and structures are common targets for thieves. Never leave valuables in your car or items in plain view. Take items like GPS devices, removable stereo faceplates, and electronics with you. Make sure your windows are up and the doors are locked. Apply a security device or set the alarm.

8.    Keep personal information private. Avoid becoming a victim of identity theft by carrying only the necessary items in your wallet or purse. Don’t give personal information to solicitors.

9.    Keep your residence hall room locked. Even if you’re going next door to a friend’s room, always grab your keys and lock the door. A propped open door is a perfect target for would-be thieves and allows them quick and easy access to your belongings. If your room has additional doors and windows, always be sure they are closed and locked as well.

10.    Protect your wheels. If you ride a bike remember that Macon State Police offers free bike registration.  Registering your bike helps improve the likelihood of recovery if stolen. Invest in a high-quality, hardened steel “U” lock.  For optimum security, lock both the front and frame to the bike rack.

Learn more at www.maconstate.edu/publicSafety/safety.aspx.

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