As fall sets in and daylight hours dwindle with the end of Daylight Savings on Nov. 3, staying vigilant and proactive about safety becomes even more essential.
In recognition of National Crime Prevention Month, observed each October, The Daily spoke with Captain Adam Gilmore of the CWRU Police Department to discuss ways the Case Western Reserve University campus community can continue to stay safe year round.
Read on for Gilmore’s practical advice on crime prevention and updates on campus security resources.
Q: What are the biggest safety concerns with it getting darker earlier?
Gilmore: This time of year, it’s not uncommon to arrive at work or head to classes in the dark and then leave at the end of the day in the dark. Darkness makes it easier for criminals to conceal themselves. I encourage people to not put the hood up on their jacket because it reduces peripheral views, and to not wear ear buds. It’s vital to be aware of your surroundings and other environmental factors.
Q: What steps can people take to prevent car thefts and break-ins on and around campus?
Gilmore: Theft is often a crime of opportunity. The best way to prevent your car from being broken into is to always keep it locked and remove all valuables from sight. That includes the loose coins that many people keep in their cup holders or center consoles. Another great visual deterrent is a steering wheel lock. Thieves are looking for a quick and easy target and, when they see that your car is equipped with a wheel lock, they’ll move on.
And it is always encouraged to park in a well-lit and high-traffic area. Free steering wheel locks can be picked up at the CWRU Police Department.
Q: What is being used to enhance campus safety?
Gilmore: It is important to download the Spartan Safe app, where you’ll find many helpful safety features. One of my favorites is the “friend walk” function. The user sends their location to a friend who can track them in real time as the user walks to their destination. There are also blue light emergency phones strategically placed around campus, which have buttons that can be pressed when you need police assistance. Safe Ride, which carries students, faculty and staff around campus and part of University Circle, is an excellent option when traveling after hours. The campus shuttles are also a good option.
Q: How can students, faculty and staff contribute to keeping the campus safer?
Gilmore: I encourage the campus community to be vigilant and to take care of each other. If you see something that seems out of the ordinary or suspicious in nature, please call CWRU police at 216.368.3300 right away. You can also leave an anonymous tip or text a police dispatcher through the Spartan Safe app.
Q: How does campus security collaborate with local law enforcement?
Gilmore: CWRU Police Chief Paul Owens regularly meets with our neighboring police department leaders to discuss recent crime trends. Collectively they work to develop solutions that promote positive outcomes which in turn, leads to a safer community.
The post Q&A with CWRU Police’s Adam Gilmore on staying safe this fall appeared first on The Daily.