Safety and Security

Walk briskly with a purpose. Look alert and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Most criminals choose victims who appear to be unsure of themselves or who are not paying attention.

Do not burden yourself with too may bags or packages. This makes you vulnerable to attack.

Walk where there is plenty of light.

Know where the telephones are on your regular routes. On campus, there is a convenience phone in the main lobby of each building.

Get an escort at night. The University offers a security escort service to the parking lots and public transportation stops in the vicinity. To request a security escort, go to the information desk in the main lobby when you are ready to leave the building.

If you see suspicious people or activity on campus, report it to the security guard or information desk operator on duty (dial "O" on any lobby phone).

Become familiar with the stairways and exits of the building. There are signs in each classroom and throughout the building, indicating evacuation routes, the location of fire alarms, fire extinguishers, etc.

If you discover or suspect a fire, call "O" from a lobby or office phone.

There is no one safe place to be during an earthquake. The following actions are recommended by the San Francisco Department:

If you are inside a building:

Stay inside the building. Never run outside during an earthquake. Most people are injured by falling debris.

Seek immediate shelter. Try to get under something that will protect you and hold onto it. Stay there until the shaking stops.

If you are in an elevator, go to the closest floor and get out. Never take elevators during or immediately after an earthquake.

If you are outside:

• Move away from buildings to an open area.
• Watch out for downed power lines.
• If a large amount of debris is falling try to find cover. Stay there until the shaking stops.

If you are driving:

• Put your emergency flashers on and slow to a stop, watching for traffic in the rear.
• Turn the ignition off and set the parking brake.
• Remain inside the car until the shaking stops.
• Do not stop on overpasses, underpasses, or bridges, and beware of power lines or falling building debris.

If you see someone who needs immediate medical attention, dial 911 from a lobby phone or pay phone.

Dial "O" on a lobby or office phone and inform the Operator of the situation. Explain that you have already called 911.

If you are unsure whether to call 911, or feel you need help calling, call the University Operator and explain the situation. The Operator can call 911 for you.