Crime Prevention

While Western Oregon University is a safe community, crime can occur anywhere.  However, using some simple tips you can lower your risk of becoming a victim.

Personal Safety Tips

Walking on Campus

• When walking on Campus use the safety corridors throughout the campus. Safety Corridors are the most traveled and well lit paths.  Safety Corridors are marked by a paw print on the sidewalk.
• When walking on campus try and walk with a friend or group of friends.
• Utilize the safety escort program by calling Public Safety at (503) 838-8481. Escorts are limited to on campus only
• Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking with headphones and keep your eyes up and on things happening around you.
• If you feel like you are being followed call the campus emergency number, (503) 838-9000 or 911, and go to a populated area.

Self Defense

• Campus Public Safety offers Self-Defense classes throughout the school year. To find when the next class is offered contact the Health and Wellness Center at (503) 838-9530.

Housing

• Keep your doors and windows locked when you are away from your room, even if you know you will only be gone for a minute.
• Do not prop open exterior or wing doors. Propping open doors allows anyone to enter the building or wings and compromises the safety of others.
• Do not let anyone that you do not know into the Residence halls. Residence halls are locked to keep you safe.
• Do not give your campus keys to anyone.

Report

• Report suspicious people or activity to Public Safety
• Report all crimes to Public Safety and/or Monmouth Police, no matter how minor they seem
• Report any lights that are out or flickering around campus to the Physical Plant at (503) 838-8239

Property

• Engrave all valuables with a personal mark, like your driver’s license number. Do Not Use your Social Security Number.  Engravers are available at Public Safety
• Write down the serial numbers and descriptions of all your electronic devices. Keep that list in a secure and safe location.
• Lock your bike. Use a U-shape lock; cables and padlocks are easily cut.  Loop the U-shape lock through the frame of the bike to secure it.
• Register your bike at the Public Safety Office. It’s quick and it’s FREE.
• Do not leave your property lying around, even if you are only going to be gone a minute.
• Lock your vehicle. Do not leave anything of value in plain sight in your vehicle.

For more information contact Public Safety at (503) 838-8481.