Campus Safety: What to Do If It Happens to You

by Lauren Krakau

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — University of Arkansas police are aware of the social media exchanges regarding suspicious activity on and campus.

While no one has filed a report of a criminal act, and there are no reports of injuries, they urge people to call 9-1-1 if they witness any suspicious activity and/or a potential crime in progress.

The Dean of Students, Melissa Harwood-Rom said that aside from calling 9-1-1, there is a different number students should call to report suspicious activity or a potential crime after it has happened.

“Everyone should have the number 479-575-2222 in their phone,” said Harwood-Rom. “This number goes directly to the UA Ambassador and patrol will arrive immediately. ”

Harwood-Rom said the best way to handle these situations is to put yourself out of harm’s way and call either 9-1-1 or the other one.

In light of recent events, UAPD has increased patrols on campus and will follow-up on all calls they receive.

Harwood-Rom said calls made in a timely manner with detailed information are most helpful.

“Calls made after two hours are no help,” said Harwood-Rom. “If you call UAPD, they can be there in two minutes.”

Most of these calls regarding suspicious activity are related to situations involving students walking alone.

UAPD said as part of general safety suggestion, please remember to use caution when walking alone after dark, and use the “buddy system.”

Razorback Patrol Escort Service is available Sunday through Thursday from 6:00 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. and provides escorts on campus.