Prevention Guidelines and Safety Tips

Bike Security

• Get a good bike lock. Don't waste your money on a cheap padlock and cable.
• On campus, spaces are available to lock your bike in the Anderson Courtyard and between the Services and Cullen buildings.
• Lock your bike to a fixed object. Don't leave it unlocked even for a moment.

Personal Protection Strategies

• Avoid walking or running alone at night.
• Always walk in well-lit areas. Avoid the use of shortcuts or areas with minimal foot-traffic.
• Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you - especially if you are alone or it is dark.
• Walk close to the curb. Avoid doorways, bushes and alleys where someone could hide.
• Walk at a steady pace with a self-assured stride.
• Avoid using headphones while walking, driving or jogging.
• If someone in a vehicle stops and asks for directions, answer from a distance. Do not approach the vehicle.
• Do not display cash openly, especially when leaving an ATM machine.
• If in danger, scream and run, yell "fire" or carry and blow a loud whistle to attract attention
• Hold your purse tightly, close to your body. Keep your wallet in a front or buttoned hip pocket or side coat pocket. Carry as little cash as possible.
• Have your key ready in your hand so you can open the door to your home or car immediately
• Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation, leave right away and go immediately to an area with lights and people; get help if necessary. Property can be replaced - your life cannot

What Predators Look For

• Someone looking friendly, timid, lost, absent-minded, or intoxicated – thus more easily manipulated.
• Someone wearing earphones or distracted with a cell phone – unaware of surroundings.
• Someone unaware they're being followed until they're isolated.
• Someone parking close to trucks that prevent witnesses from seeing you – predators seek that kind of cover.
• Someone “handcuffed” with both arms loaded with packages or a child

Report suspicious persons to BCM Security at 713-798-3000 or call 911.

Community Resources

• National Crime Prevention Council Online Resource Center
• Texas Department of Public Safety
• Texas Legislature
• Texas Crime Prevention Association
• TMC Phone Numbers

Local Agencies

• Houston Police Department
• Houston Police Department - Personal Safety Guide
• Rice University Police Department

Crime Prevention Services

• Rape Aggression Defense Systems