Crime & Prevention Tips

Safety on Campus and Residence Halls

• When in the library and residence halls, eating facilities, etc. keep wallets, cell phones, and laptops with you. This is the prime time this type of property will be stolen. Buy a laptop security cable and use it.
• In your residence always close and lock your door even if you leave for just a minute. Insist your roommate(s) do the same.
• Establish rules with your roommate(s) regarding visitors (above and beyond Alfred University guest policies).

Safety in the Village of Alfred

• Alfred University students are statistically safer than the average residents, who are safer than most other village residents. However, this village is not without its crime.
• Students need to be aware of their surroundings
• Trust your instincts; if a situation makes you feel uncomfortable get away a quickly as possible. Make casual eye contact with the person making you feel uncomfortable just to let them know you are aware of their presence.
• Travel in groups of two or more (the buddy system)
• Let a roommate or friend know where you are going and when you plan on returning
• Men, carry wallets in front pants pocket
• Women, use bags, pocketbooks, etc., that zipper well. Avoid backs of chairs or under the table; carry your bag close to your body, tucked in the bend of your elbow. Avoid bags that clasp or snap shut.
• The best time to use ATMs is during the daylight hours. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Minimize the number of credit cards carried.

Safety if you're going out to a Bar or Party

• Do not go out alone. Always go out in groups of 2 or more and travel in well-lit and populated streets.
• Tell your friends/roommates if you’re leaving, with whom, where you’re planning to go and when you’ll see them back at home.
• Do not accept open drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) from others who you do not know or do not trust; this includes drinks that come in a glass.
• At parties, only accept drinks in closed containers: bottles, cans or tetra packs.
• Never leave your drink unattended or turn your back on your table.
• Do not drink from open beverage sources like punch bowls, pitchers, or tubs.
• Keep your eyes and ears open; if friends appear to be "too intoxicated" for what they have consumed, leave the party or bar immediately, and return home or seek medical attention. Do not return to the bar or party!
• Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Know where you need to go and the safest way to get there.
• Trust your instincts: If you sense something is wrong, get away from the situation.
• If you need help, then call for help. We have an amnesty policy in place.