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Tips and Information

Safety Tips

Review these helpful safety tips!

  • Use your senses. Be aware of what is happening around you. You don’t have to see danger to avoid it.
  • Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong to you, the go to safety and contact the Police.
  • Don’t be too trusting. It is easy to get complacent on a college campus. Most people are friendly, but be careful. A little paranoia can be a good thing.
  • Listen, if you hear someone approaching you from the rear, look around.
  • Maintain a safe distance from suspicious people to give yourself time to react, or to avoid attack.
  • Avoid using alcohol or illicit drugs. Their use can impair your judgement, slow reaction times, as well as expose you to some less than desirable social situations and people.
  • Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be returning.
  • Always close and lock your door when you’re away from your room, even if it is for a few minutes. Lock your room when you are asleep, even if your roomate(s) are still expected to come in after you.
  • Don’t leave valuables out where they can be seen through an open window when you’re away.
  • Be suspicious of strangers wandering through residence halls or other residential areas. Don’t hesitate to ask if they need help. When in doubt, report them to the staff or the police.
  • Remember to close exterior doors to residence halls. If you notice a door propped open, close it.
  • If you have a bicycle, use a good lock to secure it. The U-shaped locks tend to provide the best security. Always lock your bike to an immovable object such as the bike racks, but don’t lock it to a railing or light pole.
  • If you have a car on campus, always lock it when you park. Don’t leave valuables visible inside.
  • Record the serial numbers of all valuables stored in your room or your car. It’s also a good idea to engrave your drivers license number on them.
  • Be cautious when talking to strangers on the telephone. Don’t reveal anything about yourself or your housemates until you know who you’re talking to.
  • Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone late at night. Be mindful of the nearest phone or Blue Light Emergency Call Box.

How to Help

  • Dial 911 or x2345 if you see:
    • Anyone tampering with a motor vehicle
    • A stranger lingering around your building or dorm
    • A smashed door or window
    • Suspicious individuals
    • Fire or Smoke
    • Anyone with a weapon
  • Dial 911 or x2345 if you hear:
    • Screaming
    • A call for help or the police
    • The sound of breaking glass
    • Loud or obscene shouting indicating a disturbance
    • A loud explosion
    • Noise [unusual] indicating someone is trying to gain access to your dorm or building
TCNJ Response to an Active Shooter PresentationView Video