January 18, 2007
Dear Faculty/Staff:
In the last few days, the media has reported four distinct sexual assault cases off campus (two of which were by strangers; the other two by acquaintances). It is unclear if the cases are related. While these are isolated incidents, I would like to suggest some precautionary measures to ensure your safety and the safety of those with whom you live.
1) Keep doors and windows at your residence secured.
2) Do not indicate to others that you are alone nor let strangers inside your home.
3) Avoid isolated locations, such as parking areas, at night.
4) Keep your phone handy to call 911 if necessary.
5) Use your peephole to identify people before opening the door.
6) If you come home and the door is ajar, do not enter.
7) Use blinds and draperies for privacy.
8) List your initials instead of your first name on your mailbox and in the telephone directory.
9) Always keep your key ready for quick entry.
10) When you head home or to another location, tell a friend or family member where you are going.
11) If you see any stranger lingering in your area or suspicious behavior, call the police.
12) Remember that the buddy system works.
13) If you are walking alone on campus late at night or early in the morning, contact UPD for assistance.
In addition, the SNAP program (Student Nighttime Auxiliary Patrol) provides nightly escorts anywhere on campus to persons by request. The service is staffed by students and is supervised by the University Police Department. Members of the UF community may request a walking escort or a ride with SNAP via telephone at 392-SNAP (392-7627). SNAP operates Mondays through Wednesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. and Thursdays through Sundays from 6:30 p.m. to 3:30 a.m.
There are resources on campus that are
readily available to you to confidentially discuss concerns, such as the
I am confident that the Gainesville Police Department and Alachua County Sheriff's Office are doing everything possible to solve these reported crimes.
Please help us ensure your safety.
Sincerely,
Kyle Cavanaugh
Vice President for Human Resource Services