Crime Prevention

Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University strives to be proactive through crime prevention education and strategies. Learn more about how you can ensure your safety and perhaps prevent crime from occurring on campus:

Three Basic Rules

• Do stay alert. Keep your mind on your surroundings, who’s in front of you and who’s behind you. Don’t get distracted. If you’re worried about crime, ask a friend to accompany you when you go out.
• Do communicate the message that you’re calm, confident and know where you’re going. Stand tall, walk purposefully and make eye contact with people around you.
• Do trust your instincts! If you feel uncomfortable in a place or situation, leave.

Sexual Assault and Self Defense Programs

There is a wonderful opportunity for Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University students to attend a self-defense course at LSU. The 12-hour Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) System is a program of realistic self-defense tactics and techniques for women. The R.A.D. System is a comprehensive, women-only course that begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and risk avoidance, while progressing on to the basics of hands-on defense training. Courses are taught by nationally certified R.A.D. Instructors. The course is available to students, faculty, staff and community members. Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University students are eligible for the same student discount as LSU students. Contact the LSU Wellness Education Department at 225-578-5718 for more information.

Any Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University student may check out a copy of the “Police Safety Seminar” videotapes from the University Library. This video was filmed during the Safety Seminars that were offered to the public in 2002 by the EBR Police Department. The video provides excellent personal safety tips and tactics.

There is also a free a free self-defense class for women offered by the Baton Rouge Police Department called The Equalizer. Participants must be at least 13 years old with no current injuries. This class involves hands-on, physical training. For more information about attending The Equalizer, and for course schedules, please contact the Training Academy at 225-389-3886.

Personal Safety and Crime Prevention

Most crimes, whether burglary or rape, are crimes of opportunity. Criminals look for the easiest targets and the least chance of getting caught. Your job, whether protecting yourself or your property, is to make the crime more difficult and risky for the perpetrator. Be vigilant, consistent and aware even for short trips.

General Tips

• Always stop and think about the risk.
• Do not wear clothes, backpacks or hairstyles that make you easy to grab.
• Do not dig in your bag, read or dial your phone while walking. Hold your head up, walk with purpose and scan near and far with your eyes.
• Always identify a visitor before opening the door.
• Never accept a drink from a stranger or pick up a drink that has been out of your sight.
• Never allow young children to open the door to visitors.
• Always ask representatives to provide identification.
• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Don’t leave backpacks or purses unattended anywhere.
• Don’t sleep near an open window during the night.
• Don’t wear expensive jewelry or flash cash.
• Don’t visit cash machines alone or at night.
• When leaving your car with someone (mechanic, valet, friend) do not leave the key to your home on the ring.
• Take a self defense course.
• Never let anyone take you to a secondary location. Even if they have a knife or gun to your head, fight for your life.

While Walking

• Plan the safest route to your destination and use it. Choose well-lit, busy pathways and streets, avoiding alleys, vacant lots or construction sites. Take a longer way if it is safest.
• Know your neighborhood and the campus. Find out which buildings are open late (or early) and where to go to summon help if needed.
• Carry your purse close to your body and keep a firm grip on it. Carry a wallet in an inside coat or trouser pocket, not in the rear trouser pocket.
• Have your car or house key in hand and ready as you approach your vehicle or home.
• Never hitchhike.

In the Car

• Keep your car in good running condition to avoid a breakdown.
• Plan your route in advance, particularly on long or unfamiliar trips. Have enough gas and money to get there and back.
• Drive with all car doors locked. Keep windows rolled up whenever possible.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.

Jogging, Biking and Other Outdoor Activities

• Vary your jogging route and schedule.
• Avoid jogging and biking at night.
• Consider not wearing headphones.
• Wear bright, reflective clothing.
• Carry some form of identification.

Bike Security

• Get a good bike lock. Don’t waste your money on a cheap padlock and cable.
• Lock your bike to a fixed object. Don’t leave it unlocked even for a moment.