Street Sense Tips

The Basic Mindset

  • Wherever you are-walking between classes, in the library, shopping, driving — stay alert and tuned into your surroundings.
  • Walk with confidence-show that you're aware and in control. Body language works.
  • Trust your instincts. If something or someone makes you uneasy, get out or away.

Practical Advice

  • Walk with a friend whenever possible.
  • Don't fumble in your pocket or purse for your door key—have it in hand before you reach your home or car.
  • Stick to well-lighted, well traveled areas. No shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys.
  • Avoid jogging or biking alone. If you must go by yourself, stay clear of isolated or poorly-lighted areas.
  • Don't tempt fate by flashing large amounts of cash or other valuable objects.
  • Out late studying? Call a friend or Public Safety for the safety escort service at ext. 5555 when you’re ready to leave.
  • Never hitchhike. It's not worth the risk.
  • NEVER leave your personal property unattended.
  • Watch your purse, backpack, briefcase, recorder. Don't take a break and leave them behind.
  • If you think someone is following you, abruptly switch directions or cross the street. If you're still being followed, go to a public place and ask for help.

Bus and Subway Riders

  • Use well-lighted, busy stops.
  • Sit near the driver, and don't doze off!
  • If someone harasses you, don't be embarrassed. Just say loudly "Leave me alone!"
  • Watch who gets off the bus or subway with you. If you feel uneasy, go where there are other people—a dorm, a store, a cafe.

How to Handle Obscene Phone Calls

  • Hang up as soon as you realize the nature of the call. Don't try to find out who the caller is, and don't show any reaction.
  • If the calls keep coming, notify the Police (Babson Police ext. 5555). Keep a log of the times, what the caller said, a description of the voice, and any background noise.

Your Campus, Your Community

  • Know your neighbors, whether you live in a dorm, a sorority or fraternity house, or off campus apartment.
  • Make sure a roommate or a friend knows your routines. Tell someone if you are going to be late or are going away.
  • Report all crime to the Campus Police (ext. 5555) or your local Police. How can they help if they don't know what’s happening?
  • Tell the "Powers that be" about broken lights, overgrown shrubbery near walkways, telephones that don't work, doors with bad locks. Don't assume that someone else will do it.

Help Keep Your Community Safe

  • If a friend has been a victim of a crime, offer moral support and practical help.
  • Work with student government and campus administrators to create a forum to diffuse potential powder-keg situations.