Austin has so much to offer that it is really a pity if you don't get out and see more than what lies between your apartment and campus. While exploring keep these tips in mind to stay safe and have a great time.
Be aware of your surroundings. When traveling off campus it is important to stay aware of your surroundings and be alert. Avoid listening to music while walking, and if you do, keep it on a low volume to hear what is happening around you. Avoid walking while looking at your phone to prevent running into danger. Lastly, always keep your head on a swivel.
Travel with others. The saying “strength in numbers” is true. Try to always walk with a friend or a group to increase safety, especially at night. It’s also more fun to walk with buddies!
Know where to report. If something happens to you or an incident needs to be reported, it is important to know where to turn. Visit https://police.utexas.edu/crimefeed to learn more about how to report and how to stay up to date on incident notifications. As always, 911 should be your first call if there is an active emergency.
Numbers and apps to have. In case of emergency, know which numbers to call. Have a set of emergency contacts that will answer a call when you need them. It’s also helpful to have apps that alert you about incident reports so you can avoid certain areas. UTPD's LiveSafe App has options virtually walk with friends and report incidents on campus.
Know where you are going. Before traveling off campus, know the best route. Knowing the directions cuts down on travel time and reduces your risk of getting lost. Knowing your route also allows you to better focus on what is going on around you rather that constantly looking at your phone.
Use crosswalks. Even though it may be more convenient to jaywalk, using crosswalks is the safest option. Crossing the streets in a crowded city like Austin can be dangerous. It is always smartest to cross the street when you are protected by the crosswalk. And always look both ways before crossing the street.
