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Security & Community Ambassador Services

Personal Safety

Security is a Personal Responsibility

Most crimes in and around the University Community are property crimes.

The chance of you being the victim of a crime is low. You greatly reduce personal risk by being aware of your surrounding and by taking the following precautions:

  • When working alone, advise someone where you’ll be
  • Acknowledge your personal surroundings
  • Look before leaving
  • Secure personal items or keep them with you
  • Conceal or remove valuable items from your vehicle
  • Use only a “U” lock to secure your bicycle
  • Use common sense
  • Report suspicious behaviour to Security Services
  • If uncomfortable, ignore panhandlers
  • Walk in groups or in high traffic areas
  • Walk in well-lit areas at night
  • Use the services of SafeWalk and SafeRide as needed

Safety Tips

Personal

  • Keep bags, backpacks, mobile phones, laptops, and any electronic equipment in safe and secure storage, when not carrying them on your person.
  • Never leave valuables unattended in, for example, the Library, cafeteria, classroom, or hallway.
  • Keep office doors locked when unoccupied.
  • Keep office doors locked when working alone at odd hours and low traffic periods.
  • Remember open accessibility increases the ability of unauthorized individuals to reach normally non-public areas of the university.
  • Avoid opening doors to strangers when working alone.
  • Know UWinnipeg Security telephone numbers and call when your personal comfort level is violated.

Vehicle

  • Keep your vehicle locked.
  • Do not leave valuables in the vehicle. If this is unavoidable, remove them from view.
  • Keep your keys in hand when going to the parking lot so you don’t linger outside longer than is necessary.
  • Be cautious of strangers approaching your vehicle.
  • If you feel threatened press the horn repeatedly to attract attention.
  • If you are followed, go directly to the nearest police station, or well-lit public place where larger groups of people can be found.
  • Carry a cell phone and pre-program the 911 emergency number into it.

Bicycle

  • Bicycles are a favourite target of thieves.
  • Only a good quality lock, such as a “U” lock, will secure your bike.
  • Cable and chains are easily cut.
  • Good quality seats should be removed.
  • Quick-release seat and wheels should be removed or secured.