UCPDThe change in campus activity during the curtailment period affects how you need to think about safety. Thefts can become more frequent during the holiday season, partly because of increased opportunity. Help keep your lab or office secure during curtailment by following these tips when you leave your workplace — whether you’re closing down for a long break, or ducking out for a quick coffee during your workday:

  • Ensure that all doors, desks, and windows are locked if you leave, and take your keys with you.
  • Keep small valuable items out of sight, or take them with you.
  • Before you leave your workplace, close any drapes or blinds.
  • If possible, take all expensive personal electronic devices with you, especially laptop computers.
  • Do not leave coats or other valuable items in common areas or where they are visible.

Following these tips may not guarantee the safety of all property; however, our combined effort across campus will create a far less attractive environment for thieves.

If you see something suspicious, call the police immediately using the non-emergency number, 510-642-6760. For emergency situations—any imminent threat to life or property—make an emergency call from campus, by dialing 9-1-1 from any landline phone, or 510-642-3333 from a cell phone.

Keeping to its 365-day-year schedule, BearWALK, UCPD’s Night Safety Service, will be operational through the break. Dial 510-642-9255 after dark to request a walking escort from your campus location to a destination within service boundaries.

Rest assured that UCPD will still be here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Some units within UCPD will be closed or operate at reduced staffing during the break, but the Patrol Division will be fully staffed over the holidays. Police services are always available at the station, Room 1 of Sproul Hall. (Enter through the south basement doors on the south — Bancroft Avenue — end of the building.)

The BearWALK Service remains in operation 365 days a year, providing a walking escort after dark. To request an escort, call 510/642-WALK (9255). After 3 a.m., call BearWALK and make your request for a ride to a destination.

NOTE: The Parking and Transportation Office’s BearTransit Night Safety Shuttles will discontinue service during curtailment. Complete routes and service schedule details can be found on the Parking and Transportation website.

For more winter break safety tips — to help you stay safe whether you`re working on campus, staying home or leaving town — please visit this UCPD news page.