RUPD

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– August 24, 2011Posted in: Current News

RUPD’s new captain offers safety tips

FROM RICE NEWS STAFF REPORTS

What’s the single greatest factor that helps reduce crime on campus?

   
CLEMENTE
RODRIGUEZ

Clemente Rodriguez, the new interim captain of the Rice University Police Department (RUPD), can answer that question as fast as a thief can walk off with an unattended laptop: Report suspicious behavior.

”If you see something suspicious, report it!” Rodriguez said. ”Anytime you witness a crime or observe something suspicious, please call 713-348-6000 right away. That timely communication could help us catch a criminal and prevent other members of our community from becoming victims.”

He said cameras on cellphones can capture license plates and other photographic evidence. ”But only do so if you can use them without risking your own safety,” he added.

With a new school year just under way, Rodriguez offered the following safety tips to students. They are based on his 10 years in law enforcement, including the past nine years at RUPD.

* Don’t leave your laptop, purse, backpack, cellphone or other belongings unattended – especially in Fondren Library, Brochstein Pavilion, the Coffeehouse, serveries, Valhalla, Willy’s Pub, the Rec Center and other public areas where a potential thief can blend in with crowds of people.

* If you’re driving somewhere, secure your valuables in the trunk or under the seat before you arrive at your destination because thieves might be watching your every move when you park.

* Before you go out, charge your cellphone. And be sure that RUPD’s number — 713-348-6000 — is stored in your phone. For off-campus emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies off campus, call the Houston Police Department at 713-884-3131 or the Harris County Sheriff’s Department at 713-221-6000.

* Be very selective about leaving ”away” messages online and using check-in features on social media. You could unintentionally be telling thieves that you’re not at home and how to track you.

* If you’re running around the perimeter of campus at night, pair up with a buddy, and avoid wearing headphones, which reduce your awareness and hearing.

* Be mindful of your surroundings at all times. Take the most well lit route when you’re walking back to your room at night. If you’re walking alone, you can call RUPD for an escort.

* Never accept a drink from a stranger, and don’t leave your drink unattended, which creates an opportunity for someone to tamper with it. Watch out for your friends. If they appear intoxicated, help them get home. If they seem drunk enough to warrant medical attention, call RUPD and request assistance from Rice Emergency Medical Services.

* Keep your bike locked up, and register it at rice.edu/bikesatrice, which will help RUPD recover it if it gets stolen.

* Be sure your emergency contact information is current in your Esther account at http://esther.rice.edu so that you are able to receive urgent information on your phone from RUPD and Rice’s Crisis Management Team.

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