Crime Prevention Tips

While colleges and universities are among the safest communities, no campus is immune from crime. Most campus crimes occur when criminals are given an opportunity to commit them. It is important that everyone learn how to be alert, use common sense, and prevent threats to the safety of themselves and others.

Here are some tips to help eliminate the opportunity for crime and reduce your risk of being victimized:

Protect yourself in your residence hall

• Lock your door … even if you’re only leaving for a minute.
• Lock your door when you are sleeping, or leaving for an extended period of time, taking a nap, or when you will be obviously distracted (such as taking a shower, listening to music, using a blow dryer, etc.).
• Never admit strangers into your room or hall. When in doubt request their I.D.
• Never disconnect smoke detectors.
• Immediately report suspicious persons or activity to the Campus Police including any strangers loitering around.
• Secure your valuables. Put, and keep, your money, wallets, jewelry, handbags or other valuables out of sight. Protect yourself when working or studying after normal business hours
• Never remain alone in isolated or unoccupied areas, including classrooms, libraries and other campus buildings. But, in the event this happens, make sure all outside entrance doors are locked and do not let anyone else in the building.
• Secure the door to your area, and be certain to notify the Campus Police, giving them your name, location, phone number and expected departure time.
• Call for an escort if necessary. (Campus Police: 761-6291)

Protect Yourself On and Off Campus

• Stay alert, confident and aware of your surroundings. Make eye contact with people around you, walk purposefully and trust your instincts.
• Avoid alleys, short cuts and vacant lots; stick to well-lit, busy streets.
• Avoid displaying large amounts of cash. Use ATMs during daylight hours only.
• If you are being followed, abruptly change directions, stay in a well-lit area, make noise, (sing loudly), attract or direct attention to you and the person that is following you.
• Dial 911 in emergency situations.

Contact Information

Office of Campus Police
Talladega College
627 Battle Street West
Talladega, Alabama 35160
Telephone: 256-762-6291
Cell: 256-322-3103

Jefferson Walker, Chief
email: JWalker@talladega.edu