LSUPD Chief Marshall Walters advises students on how to stay safe during the holiday season as travel and seasonal festivities start to take place on and around LSU campus.
Last year, 9 million people visited Baton Rouge, which adds to the over 200,000 people who are residents of the metropolitan area. Walters emphasizes the importance of being aware of surroundings and being familiar with the area, especially during the holidays.
“The biggest thing we’ll always say when talking about safety is staying alert,” Walters said. “ Being aware of your surroundings and paying attention to what’s going on.”
Walters said students should lock windows and doors before leaving home, turn off lights and unplug all devices from outlets. This is to help prevent burglaries and fire hazards while students are traveling for the holidays.
Keeping vehicles secured and not leaving valuables in sight is a good way to prevent theft during the holiday season, Walters said.
“They’re looking for opportunities, so if there’s a laptop or an iPad sitting in the front seat they are going to take advantage of that,” Walters said.
While shopping around Baton Rouge or traveling back home for the holidays, Walters says students should keep an eye on personal items. Keeping them close is a good way to prevent pick pocketing.
“People are out in other cities,” Walters said. “They are in shopping areas, travel locations, bus terminals and airport terminals. Just make sure to keep an eye on it and that you’ve got a good feel for it.”
The LSU Shield app is a hub for students and visitors to campus. One of the app’s features is a friend watch option, which allows students to notify one of their friends if they have not arrived at their destination in a timely manner.
Walters recommends students use this feature or reach out to their family or friends while traveling.
“If you’re driving, make sure friends and family know when you’re leaving and what time you’re expected to get there,” Walters said. “That way you just have someone keeping up with you. You can always use the LSU Shield app and use the location-sharing mechanism for friends and family.”
Christmas is approaching which means an increase in online sales occurring on and around campus. Walters emphasizes the importance of safe transactions by asking questions, never sharing personal information online and not meeting at home or in a dorm.
“If you’re on campus and you don’t feel comfortable meeting them at your dorm, which we would not recommend, come to LSUPD and you can do the transaction here on site at the police department,” Walters said.
Walters advised students to call emergency services if they ever feel unsafe.
“Always trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, if something doesn’t look right, step away and call 911,” Walters said. Reach out to someone that you trust that can help you figure out if it is a legit concern or not.”
LSUPD remains open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. To reach LSUPD call (225)-578-3231.
