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UW advises students on ways to stay safe

August 9, 1999

Because several sexual assaults have occurred over the last month in or near downtown Madison, city and university police urge students to take measures that will reduce the chances of becoming a victim.

University officials are teaming with Madison police to spread this word: Thinking about assaults and how they occur, then acting on that knowledge, can make a world of difference in personal safety.

Their tips:

  • Walk with friends at night and in places with lots of traffic. In general, be aware of your surroundings.
  • Use the university’s Safe Nighttime Services (walking escort, cab, bus). Call 265-5010 for details.
  • Always lock your door at home, especially when you’re inside. That applies even when your roommate is out late.
  • Make sure any open windows are blocked or locked to prevent entry.
  • Use outdoor lighting whenever and wherever possible.
  • Consider carrying a personal panic alarm device – a noisemaker
  • to scare off intruders.
  • Report any suspicious person to the police immediately. Call 911 in case of an emergency.

    By Madison ordinance, landlords must provide the following safety features for your apartment or home:

  • Adequate lighting in public halls and stairways in buildings with more than one apartment.
  • A peephole in the main entrance door to an apartment.
  • Regular and window ventilating locks for basement, first- and second-story windows.
  • Keyed deadbolt locks on all doors to each dwelling unit.

If you discover that your apartment or home lacks any of these features, notify your landlord immediately and ask that someone repair or install what is needed. If your landlord fails to do so, call the Madison Building Inspection Unit, 266-4551. If you have additional concerns or questions, call the Tenant Resource Center, 257-0006.

You can obtain crime prevention information from the Madison Police Department, 266-4238, or from UW-Madison Police, 262-3062. In addition, the university police crime prevention section offer more tips.

Other important phone numbers: Rape Crisis Center, 251-7273, and the Dean of Students Office, 263-5700.