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CRIME PREVENTION FOR NEW STUDENTS
The University of Florida Police Department wishes to welcome all new and returning students to the University Campus. The University strives to provide an environment that is as crime-free as possible in which you can live, work and study. To do this the police need your help. Take the time to review the safety programs available on campus and learn to protect yourself by learning crime prevention principles. Use the services provided, behave in a responsible manner and help make your community an enjoyable place to live. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility.
SNAP: Student Nighttime Auxiliary Patrol 392-SNAP (7627)
SNAP is the University of Florida’s nightly campus escort service. Operating from 6:30 p.m. to
1:30 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 3:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday. SNAP provides
walking and driven escorts on campus. There are several shuttle and express routes available.
Call 392-SNAP for information on your specific needs.
Emergency Telephones
The University provides a system of Emergency Telephones. These special telephones
strategically placed on the campus provide direct contact with the University Police Department.
The police department can identify the location of each call and assistance is sent whenever a
telephone is activated. Response time is approximately three to four minutes anywhere on campus.
While you are acquainting yourself with the campus take note of the emergency telephone
locations. Don’t hesitate to use them should an emergency or suspicious situation arise.
Thefts
Thefts are the largest single crime problem on campus. Frequent targets are bicycles and
personal property that is left unlocked or unattended. It is general knowledge in the criminal
community when students return to campus. Protect your property by following simple precautions.
* Never leave your valuables unattended.
* Register you bicycle and other valuables with the police department. Homeowner's
insurance policy on your permanent residence may cover thefts while away at school. Check with
your insurance company.
* When in the residence hall never leave your room unlocked while taking a shower or making
a short trip down the hall. Don’t prop open exterior or hall doors.
Personal Safety
Personal safety is generally the first concern of people on university campuses nationwide.
The University of Florida Police Department places personal safety as its number one priority.
There are many programs available from the police department to assist the community with their
personal safety. Here are some tips to enhance your personal safety.
* Listen to your instincts. If you feel there is a problem get away.
* Stay tuned into your surroundings. Be alert for danger.
* Stick to well-lighted walkways. Avoid isolated, wooded or dark areas. Don't take short
cuts.
* When you run or jog never do so alone. Avoid running at night. If you must run at
night use the lighted areas of campus and run with others. Avoid isolated areas and never wear
headphones when running.
Property Security
* Never leave your belongings unattended anywhere.
* Always use a U-style lock for your bicycle. Attach the lock through a wheel, the frame
and a stationary object such as a bicycle rack.
* Mark or engrave your valuables. Use Operation ID (link to OP ID) for the most expensive
items.
For further information on this or others safety topics please contact the University of Florida Police Department’s Community Services Division at 392-1409.