Welcome to CodeWorks 2024!
Safety Around University of Baltimore (UBalt)
As more pedestrians take to the sidewalks, University of Baltimore wants to take this opportunity to remind CodeWorkers of some simple steps you can take to ensure your safety:
Be aware of your surroundings. Put away distractions – like your phone and headphones – when walking outside. Keep your head up and know where you’re going.
Lock it or lose it:
Vehicles: Lock your car and roll up your windows, even when you’re inside your vehicle. Keep phone cords and electronics in the trunk.
Bicycles: Secure bicycles to a bike rack with a u-lock if possible. Don’t forget to lock it!
Valuables: Need to step away? Take your laptop, tablet, and phone with you. Don’t rely on someone else to keep your valuables safe. Secure valuable items inside locked desk drawers.
Plan for panhandlers. It is not a crime for people to ask you for money or food, whether it’s panhandlers or squeegee workers. How you respond is your choice.
If you choose to give: Avoid bringing out your wallet or taking out money from an ATM. Consider giving food, clothing, water, or small change from your pocket.
If you choose not to give: Say “sorry, no” politely but firmly and move on. A smile and a kind word go a long way, and it’s free!
Aggressive panhandling is against the law. Walk away or ask the person to stop in a clear, calm voice. If you feel threatened, call for help from a passerby or security officer. In an emergency, always call 911.
Park at the Fitzgerald Garage. Parking off-campus may be less expensive or even free. However, off-campus parking may be outside the patrol area of our police officers. To prevent damage to your vehicle and, most importantly, for your own safety, we recommend parking in the Fitzgerald Garage.
Request a Safe Walk: Safe Walk is available 24/7 by calling 410-837-4444 (UBalt Safety and Security) or 410-706-6882 (UMB Police).
If you see something, say something. Safety is a community effort. If you see any suspicious activity, call 410-706-6882. In an emergency, always call 911.
These small actions can make a huge difference to your personal safety and the safety of our UBalt community. Remember: our Police Officers and Security Ambassadors are available day or night. Stay safe!
While we continue to recommend parking at the Fitzgerald, if you decide to park on the street, we strongly encourage the use of an anti-theft device that attaches to your steering wheel.
While our area has a low level of crime currently, this could change.
Sincerely,
Thomas Leone
Assistant Vice President for Public Safety and Chief of Police
University of Maryland, Baltimore Police Department