Skip to McMaster Navigation Skip to Site Navigation Skip to main content

Personal Safety

Your personal safety is Campus Safety Services number one priority. We have numerous personal safety devices on the campus for your safety, such as CCTV cameras and Emergency phones as well as the services of SWHAT. We have included some personal safety tips that can assist you in remaining safe both on and off the campus.

Information Box Group

On the Street

  • Use SWHAT when walking alone at night
  • Walk in groups for safety sake
  • Avoid dark and deserted areas
  • Be aware of alternate routes and safe places
  • Plan your route. Avoid shortcuts through dark, untravelled areas. Take the most direct, frequently travelled route.
  • Be Alert. Walk with confidence
  • Familiarize yourself with locations of the campus emergency phones
  • Walk near curb, away from shrubs
  • Never carry large amounts of money, or show it in public
  • If you think you are being followed, go to the nearest public place
  • Let people know where you will be, and what time to expect you
  • When working alone at night, consider staying in contact with Campus Safety Services

In Your Car

  • Do not pick up hitchhikers
  • Lock your doors when you are in your vehicle
  • Walk to your vehicle quickly with keys in hand
  • Use SWHAT to escort you to your car
  • Make sure your car is mechanically fit and free from breakdowns
  • If you are being followed, do not drive home. Drive to the nearest police station.
  • Park your car in a well-lit, well-travelled area

In Residence

  • Inventory your property. Record all serial numbers
  • Don’t keep large amounts of cash in your room
  • Always lock your door, even if you’re just leaving for a minute
  • Question strangers in residence and call Campus Safety Services if they don’t belong

In Off-Campus Housing

  • Keep all doors locked, even while at home.  
  • Never open the door to strangers. If someone asks to come in for help, keep the door closed and call the police for them.  
  • Draw all window drapes and shades at night.  
  • Get to know your neighbours and look out for each other.  
  • Ensure that shrubs around the property are maintained for clear windows and doors. 
  • Consider installing a second locking device on windows and sliding doors. 

Building/Office Safety:

  • Ensure exterior of building is secure, do not prop open doors
  • Immediately remove props from any doors
  • If door is unable to be secured, call security immediately at ext 24281
  • Keep offices and personal property secure at all times
  • Report lost or missing access cards or keys immediately to security
  • Don’t loan keys or access cards to anyone