Taking Precautions During Wartime

University officials are monitoring events in Iraq and are in close contact with local, state and federal authorities for the latest information about the nation's heightened terror alert status. Most of the university's police officers have been trained in counter-terrorism procedures, and have stepped up patrols in sensitive areas, but your help is needed.

Safety on campus is everyone's responsibility. The nation's heightened terror alert status should not make you afraid, but rather open your eyes to your surroundings. Though Duke has not received any threats, the university police department recommends that you add these simple steps to your daily life:

-- Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to University Police at (919) 684-2444. What's "suspicious?" That can include people who appear to be out of place on campus, packages that seem to be abandoned, unexpected mail arriving from an unfamiliar source or unfamiliar vehicles parked near public areas. Trust your judgment.

-- Lock all windows and doors that should be locked at the close of business.

-- Do not prop open doors and windows in residence halls or other campus buildings.

-- Lock your car doors.

-- Always carry your Duke University identification card. You may be required to show it to an officer to drive onto campus or enter certain buildings. Be patient if extra security measures take time.

-- If you receive a threat, by phone or mail, call the University Police Department.

-- Keep track of keys, especially those that unlock doors in secured buildings. If you lose your keys, notify a building manager.

-- Keep your personal items with you at all times, especially in public areas such as the library, the Bryan Center and cafeterias.

-- Familiarize yourself with building evacuation plans.

-- Prepare a list of personal emergency contact numbers.

-- Stay informed. Duke's website will be updated and serve as the central source of information in an emergency. Also pay attention to national and international news events.

For more crime prevention tips and other security information, visit the university's police website.