A web page for the health and safety of everyone on campus, presented by The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Safety Council and the Office of Institutional Advancement. For general information associated with this site, please contact Environmental Health & Safety at (713) 500-8100.
Staying Safe While in Your Car
Capt. Ronald MacLennan of UT Police offers the following tips for those traveling in and around the Houston area:
- Lock your vehicle doors before you drive away. Windows should be up to prevent someone from trying to enter your vehicle.
- Obtain gas during the day at stations that are in well-observed locations.
- Check the area before you exit your vehicle.
- Don't leave your keys in the vehicle or leave the engine running.
- If possible:
- pay at the pump to avoid walking up to the cashier area;
- take a friend or family member with you for added protection.
- Avoid speaking to unknown persons who may be soliciting at corners or in long lines of traffic. There are other ways to help those in need without compromising your personal safety while driving.
- When using parking lots or garages, check the area before you exit your vehicle.
- Park in areas that are open, accessible and have good lighting.
- Know where you're going before you leave the vehicle to avoid walking long distances.
- If you have numerous items to carry, drive up the entrance or dock area to unload. You don't want to be distracted carrying things through parking lots or garages.
- If possible, take a friend or family member with you for added protection.
- Always travel with a cell phone and let others know where you're going, when you arrived and when you're leaving.
- Above all else, follow your instincts — if a situation or environment doesn't "feel right" move on and avoid a situation where your safety is at risk.
Visit U.T. Police at http://www.mdanderson.org/utpd/
Date Posted: 09/14/2005
