Safety in Numbers

Dial 8-3333 or 911
Keeping Safe on Campus

Whether studying or partying, keep these tips in mind to stay safe.

SAFE STUDYING

Campus Security Escort Program – A free service available 24 hours a day for students who would feel safer riding across campus. Call 214-768-3333 for a ride.

Line of Defense – Take a self-defense class from a trained SMU Police officer on Thursdays at 5:15 p.m. in the Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports. Call 214-768-3333 to sign up for the next class.

Buddy System – Avoid walking alone on campus. Stay with a group, and if you find yourself alone, call 214-768-3333 for a ride.

Blue Lights – Not feeling safe? Follow the blue light to an emergency campus call box and press the red button for immediate connection with SMU Police.

Let People Know Where You’ll Be – Keep your friends informed so they’ll know to be concerned if you’re not around when you should be.

SAFE PARTYING

Feeling funny? Use of the so-called “date rape” drugs – such as GHB, Rohypnol, and Ketamine – is on the rise nationally. Symptoms resemble intoxication, including loss of inhibitions, illness, and unconsciousness. Here’s what you need to know:

At a social event:

  • Know where your drink has been; do not leave it unattended.
     
  • Accept drinks only from waiters or bartenders at clubs or restaurants.
     
  • Always open your own drink; do not accept an open container from anyone.
     
  • Use the buddy system to watch out for each other.
     
  • If you suspect you’ve been drugged:
    • Get tested immediately at the SMU Health Center or at a local hospital. Because drugs such as GHB can be detected for only a few hours, immediate action is required. Preserve as much evidence as possible – do not shower, use the bathroom, or wash the clothes you were wearing. If possible, keep the container from which you drank. Call SMU Police, 214-768-3333.
    • Help a friend. If a friend appears to be extremely intoxicated in a disproportionate amount of time, get him or her to a safe place. Call SMU Police, 214-768-3333. Tell the officer what you suspect and ask for assistance reaching a hospital. At the hospital, request the “date rape” drug test.

OTHER SMU SERVICES

About Last Night – If you have questions regarding sexual assault: 214-768-4795.

24-Hour Crisis Line – Something troubling you that you want to talk about: 214-768-2860.