Safety and Emergency Preparedness

UGA is typically a safe place to be, but being safe and prepared for emergencies is everyone’s responsibility. The information below should help you to be safer and more prepared for an emergency.

Personal Safety:

• Lock up your residence at all times.
• Always lock your car and bike. Never leave money, electronics or other items visible in your car.
• Do not ever leave property unattended, even if you only plan to be away for a few minutes. Backpacks, laptops and cell phones are easy targets.
• Do not open a door to a building for a stranger who does not have a key, or hold the door for someone who does not have access to the building or residence hall.
• Always report suspicious behavior to the UGA Police at 911. If you “See Something, Say Something.”
• While downtown can be a fun place, responsible and moderate alcohol consumption are key to a safe and successful evening. 
• Keep your bag or purse closed and on your body to prevent theft.
• Sometimes it’s tempting to walk off with a new “friend,” but it’s better to stay with your group or at least one other friend you know and trust.
• Save the number of a trusted cab driver in your phone. You don’t want to be stuck downtown without a safe ride late at night. Remember, Designated Dawgs is also available and provides safe and free rides home.
• Do not get in an unmarked cab. Taxis in Athens-Clarke County must be registered, have a working top light and display official decals. A designated taxi stand is located at the Arch.
• Do not ever leave your drink unattended at a party, bar, or restaurant.

Rape and Sexual Assault Awareness:

Rape and sexual assaults are serious crimes.  Students can help ensure their safety by exercising caution and by remembering the following suggestions:

• Think about how you meet people. Avoid being in an isolated situation or with someone you don’t know, or only just recently met.
• Be cautious and responsible about alcohol consumption.  Most acquaintance rapes involve alcohol consumption by both parties.
• In a dating relationship, both parties should communicate openly and clearly and discuss the topic of consent.
• If you are sexually assaulted, talk to someone you trust – a friend, a Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention (RSVP) counselor or a representative from The Cottage. The choice is yours as to whether or not you want to report the incident to the police; however, if you do seek police assistance, you allow the police to concentrate on a particular area or person. This may keep another student from going through the same anguish.

Contacts: RSVP at the University Health Center 706-542-SAFE (7233) or The Cottage at 1-800-363-1912 or 706-353-1912.

Emergency Preparedness: