You play a critical role in creating a safe community for everyone, and your actions impact everyone else in the community as well as your safety. What can you do to make sure your residence hall space is safe and secure for your community?
Carry your keys and Wiscard at all times. Not only will this keep you from getting locked out, but in the event of an emergency, your keys and Wiscard help identify that you are a resident of your building.
All residence hall exterior doors are safeguarded by an electronic locking system that allows 24-hour monitoring of door locks to make sure doors are locked at the proper times. These electronic security pads outside and inside the residence halls are programmed to let in only the people who live in the building. Those without the correct Wiscard credentials will not be able to access the space. Security cameras with recording devices are located throughout the first floor and building entrance areas of all University Residence Halls, as well as some elevators and resident floors.
Do not make a copy of your residence hall room key. Not only is this a legal violation, but if the key is ever lost, it also poses a threat to you, your roommate, and students who live in your room in future years.
Lock your room door when you and your roommate(s) are away and especially when you are sleeping. Even if you are just going to the bathroom down the hall, leaving your door open or unlocked for a few minutes could put you and your valuable items at risk if a stranger enters. Virtually all thefts from residence hall rooms occur when residents leave their rooms unlocked.
Pay attention to your surroundings. Do not let strangers into your residence hall. This includes propping open a door for any period of time or allowing someone to “piggyback” in behind you while you enter the building.
Walk in groups. This is important especially at night. Keep your cell phone accessible, and use SAFEWalk if you have to walk alone. You can also use the BadgerSAFE app to walk virtually with a friend.
Make sure someone knows when you leave a location, where you are headed, and when to expect you back. Letting a trusted friend or family member what your travel plans are helps them to know to alert authorities if you aren’t where you said you would be.
Report a crime or any suspicious activity immediately. In an emergency, dial 911. To report non-emergencies, call the UW–Madison Police Department at 608-264-COPS (2677).
Do not hesitate to contact University Housing staff or UW–Madison Police if you observe an unsafe situation or have a concern. Visit the University Housing Health & Safety page or the UW–Madison Police Department website for more information on ways you can stay safe on campus.