Crime & Safety

UMD Students Return for Spring Classes

Campus police issue safety tips for returning students.

As students returned to campus for the spring semester at the campus police are asking them to take basic precautions which could help them avoid becoming a victim of crime.

"While we will always do our best to keep you safe, we hope that you can take the first step in keeping yourself out of danger," wrote Chief David Mitchell of the University of Maryland Police Department. "I hope this information serves as a reminder of what you can do to reduce your chance of being the victim of a crime and to help you remain safe during the school year."

In an email to students, Mitchell distributed the following list of safety tips and emergency contacts:

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• Before you leave your residence or go to sleep for the night, check to be sure that all windows and doors are locked.
• Stay alert and attuned to people and circumstances around you - electronic devices that block your hearing or split your attention make it difficult for you to remain vigilant.
• Avoid isolation. After dark, walk with others and use well-lit paths. Department of Public Safety escort services are available 24/7 at 301-405-3555.
• If you feel you are being followed, contact the police immediately. Prevent people from tailgating into the building by ensuring the door closes as soon as possible after you enter.
• If you observe suspicious behavior, report it to police immediately by dialing301-405-3555 or #3333 from a mobile device.
• Note the locations of the Blue Light Emergency Phones and look for them as you walk.
• Register for emergency text alerts at alert.umd.edu.
• Follow @UMPD on Twitter for information updates. 
• Download the M-Urgency safety app available for IOS and Android devices. Visit m-urgency.umd.edu for additional information and instructions.

Important Safety Resources

University of Maryland Police
• EMERGENCY NUMBERS: 911 from any phone, 301-405-3333 or #3333 (from mobile device)
• UMDPS website: www.umdps.umd.edu (contains daily incident logs)
• UMD Alerts: Register for emergency text alerts and crime warning emails atalert.umd.edu.
• Public Safety blog site at blog.umpd.umd.edu
• Follow @UMPD on Twitter for information on incidents and events or visit our Facebook page 

Prince George’s County Police
• 911 from mobile or landline phone
• Non-Emergency Number: 301-352-1200
• Follow @PGPDNEWS on Twitter for information on incidents and events in Prince George's County

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