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Safety Tips and Resources

Although Garden City remains as one of the safest neighborhoods on Long Island and Adelphi University one of the safest campuses in the country, we remain as determined as ever to be vigilant about concerns of safety. Please take a moment to review the following safety tips.

Working together as a community, we will continue to ensure a safe environment for everyone at Adelphi University.

ATM Safety Tips

  • Automated teller machines (ATMs) are a convenient and easy way to get cash. Each time you use an ATM, keep the following safety tips in mind.
  • Common sense is your best guide when using ATMs. Trust your instincts and only use ATMs where you feel safe and comfortable.
  • If you need to visit an ATM after dark, bring a friend whenever possible and always choose ATMs that are well lit. For added security, use ATM locations where the activity is recorded by a surveillance camera. In most cases, clearly visible signs indicate that a camera is in use.
  • Have your ATM card ready before going to an ATM to avoid exposing your wallet or purse. Fill out your deposit slip and place your cash or checks in a sealed deposit envelope before arriving at an ATM location. After a withdrawal, be sure to put your money, receipt, card and wallet away before leaving the ATM.
  • Your ATM card cannot be used without your personal identification number (PIN), so keep your number secret. Memorize your PIN and never write it on your card or leave it in your wallet. When you use an ATM, stand between the machine and the person behind you so no one can see you enter your number. If you suspect someone is looking over your shoulder, cancel the transaction and leave immediately.
  • Whether you use an ATM in an enclosed vestibule, on the street or at a drive-up window, always be aware of your surroundings. When you are in a vestibule, close the entry door completely upon entering and exiting, and do not offer entry to strangers. At the drive-up, keep your engine running, lock all your doors and open only the drivers window.

If your card is lost or stolen report it to the bank immediately and contact your local Police and/or) Public Safety Department by dialing ext.3511 on campus) if the card had been stolen or has been fraudulently used. Below are the numbers to report a lost or stolen credit card.

American Express 800.668.2639
Discover 800.347.2683
MasterCard 800.307.7309
VISA 800.336.8472
Western Union 800.325.6000
Call the national credit reporting organizations immediately to place a fraud alert on your name and SS#

In addition call the Social Security Fraud line		 800.525.6285 (Equifax)

800.269.0271

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Reporting Intruders or Suspicious Activity
At times people return to their offices, etc., and find a stranger. The stranger usually has a 'cover story,' such as looking for employment, or trying to find someone. Regardless of the story provided, take close notice of the stranger's appearance, age, height, weight and clothing, and notify Public Safety. Do not forcefully confront intruders or pursue them when they flee. Such action involves a high degree of risk, and can result in assaults upon members of the university's community. It is far more advisable to be able to provide a good description of a stranger and the direction of flight. Then notify Public Safety immediately (Dial 5 on campus phones or call 877-3511).

One method that has proven quite successful is to simply say "May I help you?" If the person is an intruder, the chances are quite high a 'cover story' will exist, and then person will leave the area. While you are listening to the story, you can get a good look at the person and be able to provide an accurate description for the Public Safety Officer

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Soliciting
Here is Adelphi's policy on this activity: It is prohibited for any person to peddle or solicit anywhere on campus. This includes, but is not limited to distributing bar flyers, leaflets, and posters under doors, on car windows, on floors, in buildings, on the grounds or anywhere on campus. When you become aware of such activity, note what the individual(s) are attempting to sell or promote along with a description and notify Public Safety immediately

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Theft
Tips for Protecting Personal Property and AU Property Never leave personal belongings unattended, whether you are in an office, lab, library, etc. Regardless of how long you will be gone, even a couple of minutes, unwatched articles invite thieves.

Lock your doors, when you leave your office or lab. Most of the thefts in the university environment occur in unlocked areas. Do not prop self-locking doors and do report defective locks immediately. Do not leave notes on your desk advertising your absence or when you will return.

Athletic facilities are not immune from thieves. Try not to bring valuables (expensive watches, jewelry, wallets with cash and credit cards, etc.) with you when you exercise. If you must, be sure to lock everything in your locker. Report any suspicious person or activity to Public Safety (Dial 5 on campus phones or call 877-3511).

Most crimes can be prevented. While Public Safety tries to prevent crimes on campus, it is your responsibility to protect yourself. Help prevent crimes by securing your personal properties (laptops, wallets, handbags etc.) and valuables. Report any crimes, suspicious people or activities to Public Safety immediately.

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Contact
For more information, please contact:

Office of Public Safety
Levermore Hall Lower Level
p - 516.877.3500
f - 516.877.6819


This page last modified on February 13, 2008.
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