Even with the increase of the student population, crime on campus has remained stable since the previous year, according to Chief Mike Prescott of the University Police Department (UPD).

“We’re pretty close to the top as far as safety goes,” said Prescott.

UPD recently published their criminal statistics report, which included the top two campus offenses: burglary and theft. According to the UPD crime stats, as of 2009, the number of burglaries on campus and residential life were down by 14 incidents, burglaries of vehicles went down to zero incidents and thefts were down by two incidents since 2008.

Prescott attributes the lowered statistics to the fact that the UPD takes a proactive stance on keeping the campus safe. UPD offers various safety services, including patrolling the campus by car or foot, camera surveillance, first alert systems, escorts, self defense courses and community awareness bulletins.

Should there be an area where crime is occurring more often than normal, a detective will be assigned to that area to pay closer attention. More officers will also be assigned to that area until the issue is resolved.

The blue phone system is also another prevention method for students. The 80-plus phones are used as a priority call system, and users can be heard from a significant distance away from the phone.

“When they’re used, it’s usually someone who needs some help, someone may be sick or is overheated,” said Prescott.

To lessen the chance of students becoming victims of crime, Prescott encourages students to be more vigilant and aware of their surroundings. He recommends that students do not leave bags unattended and that they lock their vehicles. In addition to making sure vehicles are locked and properly secured, Prescott also encourages keeping belongings concealed to remove temptation.

Small items such as smart phones, laptops, iPods and other electronic devices left alone are easy targets. Areas including the Pennington Student Activity Center, the Sims Memorial Library or the Student Union have been areas where thefts are likely to occur. According to Prescott, students will leave items out in the open, unattended.

“Unfortunately in today’s society, there are people that prey on that,” said Prescott, who also recommends students refrain from flaunting expensive items such as jewelry or money.

“You just don’t know who’s out there, who’s listening,” said Prescott.

To further help student safety, Prescott recommends students walking in numbers after hours. Should a student feel unsafe, they can call UPD to have an officer escort them to their vehicle or dorm.

“If you feel uncomfortable, walk with a friend, have a buddy system,” said Prescott.

In order to further prevent crime, Prescott advocates the community relationship with the campus.

“The best thing we have to help us curtail crime on campus is our students, faculty and staff,” said Prescott. “They have to let us know if they see something that is suspicious or strange. They need to report the crime if it does occur.”