Safety Planning and Risk Reduction Practices
The safety and security of University of Alabama students, employee, and campus visitors is our highest priority. The University of Alabama Police Department, the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs, and the WGRC assist individuals with safety planning. Safety plans are individualized guides to help lower the risk of harm and keep an individual as safe as possible. Typically, individuals request safety planning when they are faced with the risk of a repeat offense. Examples of safety measures include:
- Mutual No Contact Orders
- Written Trespass Warnings
- Limiting an individual’s access to campus or events
- Assistance with filing for Protection from Abuse Orders
- Safe Housing/Relocation (When available)
- Police Escorts
- Increased Police presence
- Modification of academic schedule or other academic assistance
- Transportation Assistance
- Filing of Reports
- Change in work assignments or locations if the individual is a UA employee
- 24 hour on-call advocate
Risk Reduction are options designed to decrease perpetration and bystander inaction, and to increase empowerment for potential victims in order to promote safety and help individuals and communities address conditions that facilitate violence. Information and programs provided by UA to promote risk reduction and increase safety include:
- The UA Safer Living Guide provides detailed information assisting individuals in taking an active role in protecting themselves from crime while living in the University Community. The Safer Living Guide provides information regarding after-dark walking paths, emergency blue phones, safe and positive bystander intervention techniques, and risk reduction tips.
- Emergency Phones are bright blue and located around campus. Each phone is clearly marked, and each is a direct line to UAPD Communications Center. No dialing is necessary. In an emergency, all you need to do is push the red button. Refer to the “Walk on the Bright Side Map” in the Safer Living Guide for blue phone locations. Most passenger elevators on campus have an emergency phone. Push the red button marked “Emergency” and a UAPD communications operator will answer.
- The UA Safety App provides students and employees with immediate access to information in case of an emergency. Features include a built-in GPA to every campus building and shelter locations, AEDs, and safety guidelines for potential hazards. The Safer Living Guide and Safety and Support information, including reporting channels, resource information, and a link to the Title IX website is included on the app. The UA Safety App is free and available for download on iOS and Android devices.
Risk Reduction Tips:
- If you consume alcohol, do so in moderation.
- Do not leave your beverage unattended or accept a drink from an open container.
- When you are with someone, communicate clearly to ensure he or she knows your limits and/or expectations from the beginning. Both verbal and nonverbal (body language) communication can be used to ensure the message is understood.
- If you go on a date with someone you do not know very well, tell a close friend what your plans are.
- You have the right to say “No” even if you first say “Yes,” and then change your mind; have had sex with this partner before; have been kissing or “making out”; or are wearing what is perceived to be “provocative” clothing.
- Always have extra money to get home. Have a plan for someone you can call if you need help.
- If you feel uncomfortable, scared, or pressured, say “Stop it” or leave and call for help.
- When you go to a party, go with a group of friends. Arrive together, watch out for each other and leave together.
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
- If possible, avoid being isolated with a person you do not know or trust.
- Travel with a friend or in a group.
- Walk only in lighted areas after dark.
- Avoid walking alone after dark or during late hours.
- Keep the doors to homes, apartments, and cars locked.
- Know where phones are located.
