In response to recent assaults near campus, police and university officials visited campus Thursday to promote safety and awareness. Students, however, did not show up.
""Students don't really think that this is a big issue for them unless it has happened to them personally,"" said Associated Students of Madison Chair and UW-Madison senior Dylan Rath.
Recent sexual assaults on Langdon Street and University Avenue bring up the question of students' safety.
Interim Dean of Students Lori Berquam said many incoming freshmen are from small towns and may not be acquainted with how to protect themselves in a larger city.
The session was hosted by the Office of the Dean of Students, and included short presentations by the Madison and UW Police departments, Rath, Campus Safety Coordinator LaVar Charleston and SAFE Programs Coordinator Jacob Hahn. The main goal of the forum was to promote safety and make students aware of how they can take a proactive role in creating a safer environment on the UW-Madison campus.
""Your senses are your best defense against becoming a victim,"" Assistant Chief of Police Dale Burke said. ""If you put yourself in a position to be a victim, that possibility always exists It doesn't matter where you are or what time it is.""
Burke said one of the most important things you can do to reduce the possibility of becoming a victim is to be aware of your surroundings. Dangerous places include isolated, limited communication and limited escape-route areas.
""There are two main messages that we are trying to provide students with,"" Charleston said. ""One is don't walk alone, and the other is secure your surroundings."" Lock your doors and windows, and don't prop doors open or let strangers in to your building. Intoxication will also increase your risk of being a victim, however alcohol is not involved in all assault cases, according to Charleston.
Also stressed was the fact that the forum was not geared specifically toward women.
""Men are now being attacked as well,"" Burke said. ""This isn't just about women anymore.""
Students are encouraged to make use of campus resources such as SAFEwalk, SAFEride, and free campus bus routes.
