Personal safety is something we all need to be aware of.  On Wednesday, November 8, MaryAnn Thurber from the Madison Police Department is visiting MATC to speak to students and employees about smart street safety. 

The Madison Police Department recommends the following when arriving at or leaving a building. Start thinking about what you can do to make yourself more aware of your surroundings.

• Share a ride with a co-worker whenever possible.
• Always lock your car doors – even when you’re in it.
• Have your keys in hand when approaching the vehicle.
• Park as close to the building as possible, preferably in clear view of others.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• Look around before walking to or exiting your vehicle.
• If there is an unfamiliar person loitering near your vehicle, do not approach your car. If you have a remote, sound the horn to see if the person will leave.
• Try to arrive and leave during daylight hours.
• If you are being followed when driving, do not go home. Go to a police station, fire station or open business. If you can read a license plate number, please write it down and call the police.
• If you are walking and a vehicle is following you, turn around and walk in the opposite direction, again getting the license number and description of person(s) in the car.
• If a person is following you on foot, look at the person to let them know you are aware of them. Cross the street and be prepared to call out for help.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Look confident and move briskly.
• Have a mindset to act.
• Keep your car in good working order and have at least a half of a tank of fuel.
• A cell phone is an investment in safety.

For more personal safety tips go to Madison Police Crime Prevention.