Crime Prevention

We feel that almost every crime committed on campus is preventable. For this reason, the Department has several officers trained in crime prevention techniques and have devloped a crime prevention program based upon the dual concepts of eliminating or minimizing criminal opportunities, whenever possible, and encouraging students, faculty, and staff to be responsible for their own security and the security of others.

In addition to the student watch program, the parking lot escort service, and emergency telephone system, the following crime prevention programs and projects exist:

Printed Crime Prevention Material:
Printed crime prevention brochures, posters, and handouts related to theft and personal safety are widely distributed at crime prevention presentations and at various locations throughout campus.

Enhanced Telephone System:
All on campus telephone calls made to the Department of Public Safety's business number (387-5555) or the emergency number (911) display the number of the originating telephone instrument. This enables the police dispatcher to determine the location of the call to insure Public Safety's knowledge of the origin of an emergency call even if the caller is unable to communicate verbally. The same is true for the police call box system.

Alarm Systems: A sophisticated alarm monitoring system, located in the Department of Public Safety, monitors a comprehensive network of security, fire, and panic alarm systems.

Sexual Assault Awareness, Education and Prevention:
Criminal sexual conduct law is discussed along with statistics and safety tips. See appendix B for the WMU Sexual Assault—Statement of Guidelines.

Crime Prevention Programs:

• Acquaintance Rape Prevention: Michigan’s criminal sexual conduct law is discussed as well as behaviors and situations that may be connected with acquaintance rape. Awareness program for both men and women.
• Operation Identification: Engravers are taken to each residence hall to allow residents an opportunity to mark valuable property.
• Alcohol Awareness: Includes a discussion of alcohol related laws and a controlled drinking exercise.
• Personal Safety: Safety tips are provided for both on and off campus students. Call boxes, emergency phones and student watch programs are explained.
• Workplace Violence Prevention: A discussion of potentially violent behavior and the profile of a typical workplace violent offender. Program is aimed at the faculty and staff at WMU.
• Domestic Assault Prevention: A discussion of the Michigan laws regarding domestic assault and an explanation of the normal police response. Victim’s rights and options are also explained.
• Freshmen, Transfer and Parent Orientation: A brief overview of the Department of Public Safety is presented, along with tips on security and parking.
• International Student Orientation: A brief overview of the Department of Public Safety, along with a discussion of safety tips, state laws and local ordinances.