As the days get shorter and the nights longer, it’s helpful to once more go over some basic tips for keeping your person and your belongings safe on GVSU’s campus. At Meadows Crossing we take the safety of our tenants seriously and believe it’s always good to have a reminder because people who are busy and distracted do not always take every safety measure. And, sadly, not everyone out there is good or trustworthy.
Our first reminder is that if you are walking after dark, please do not walk alone. It’s always best to travel in groups or with a friend and to let people know when you are leaving and when you will arrive at your destination. Also, do not be distracted by your cell phone, and don’t walk while you are inebriated. If you’ve had too much to drink, it’s better if you remain where you are until you have a better grasp on your surroundings. Drunk and distracted people are targets for the unscrupulous.
If you do not have a friend or group to travel with, Meadows Crossing offers the Safe Walk service. We encourage any of our tenants to call our security service and request a Safe Walk. Security will meet you where you are and escort you in safety to where you are going. Some people, especially women, are hesitant to use this service, not wanting to “be a bother,” but protecting your safety is why we offer Safe Walks, so if you do not feel safe out at night, please call. That’s what it’s there for.
Another reminder is that locking doors is a must. Locking first floor windows is also important. This applies whenever you are going out of your apartment, whether that means dashing out to your car or running a quick errand. It’s very easy for someone to enter your apartment if you leave your door open. It may seem like a hassle to take your keys with you all of the time, but having your belongings stolen is also a huge hassle. You owe it to your roommates to keep them and their belongings safe as well.
Finally, do not leave your valuables visible in your car. This is true anywhere, not just on Grand Valley’s campus. If you leave a laptop in the backseat of your car, there is a good chance it will not be there when you get back. Many people are honest, but some people are not. If they see something they want, they will take it. Put your valuables in your trunk and lock the doors of your car or take them with you. This is a very simple tip, and it will save you a lot of frustration if you follow it.
Allendale is a safe town, and GVSU is a safe campus for students. It’s always smart to increase your own personal safety by being aware and alert to your surroundings, though, especially when it’s dark outside. If you do experience a problem or see something that seems iffy, make sure you report it to the police or campus security. Let your friends and roommates know too. If we all watch out for each other, everyone is safer.
