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Dear SMU Students,

Your safety while living and studying on our campus is the highest priority at SMU. Much of this semester we have focused on how to stay healthy during the pandemic, but I’d like to focus on another important precaution ­– crime prevention and awareness.

Recent crimes in the greater metro area outside of SMU have impacted some of our students. It is critical that you keep safety top of mind when you go out. As the semester comes to a close and the holidays approach, please celebrate responsibly and look out for one another.

If you plan to drink, appoint a designated driver or companion, and respect the decision of those who do not wish to consume alcohol. If you see a friend who has had too much to drink, please help care for them. Call a ride, escort them back to campus or seek help from others.

Here are some key safety tips from our campus police, who are here to protect you.

The SMUPD recommends:

  • Avoiding high-crime areas off campus.
  • Educating yourself on crime in areas you frequent, using this crime map.
  • Being aware of your surroundings and recognizing your vulnerabilities.
  • Using the buddy system and watching out for your fellow students.
  • Not accepting rides from people you do not know.
  • When using ride-sharing services such as Lyft and Uber, making sure you match the driver and vehicle license plate to your order – don’t get into a vehicle just because it has a ride-share sign in the windshield.
  • If threatened by an approaching vehicle, run in the opposite direction. The vehicle will have to turn around to pursue you.
  • If you find yourself confronted by an assailant, remaining calm and assessing the situation before choosing your course of action. Whether or not the assailant is armed or has made threats against you, saving your life should be your first concern.
  • Not consuming any items such as drinks or food that could have been contaminated.
  • Minimizing alcohol consumption to maintain a clear head.
  • Using sidewalks and crosswalks and avoiding walking alone, especially at night.
  • When walking during the evening hours, being aware of your surroundings and only walking in well-lit and populated areas.
  • Not displaying cash or valuables on the street or in clubs, and being aware of your environment.
  • Reporting suspicious behavior to University Police by calling 214-768-3333 (on campus) or 9-1-1 in emergencies.

For more information on how to stay safe both on and off campus, or about personal safety classes and briefings, check out SMUPD’s crime prevention resources.

Sincerely,

Dr. Kenechukwu (K.C.) Mmeje

Vice President for Student Affairs