Public Safety

On the Street

Try not to walk alone after dark—take the shuttle bus or use the Columbia Escort Service. If you are by yourself, walk quickly and always be aware of others around you. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid quiet side streets or alleys.

New York City maintains beautiful parks. Generally, they are safe during daylight hours, although you should always remain aware of your surroundings. Riverside Park is often visited by Columbia students. When entering remote or densely forested areas in parks, be alert and avoid potentially dangerous situations.

Do not carry more cash than you need. If you must carry a purse, keep it close to your body and do not resist if it is snatched. If your wallet is stolen, cancel your credit cards and your checking account at once and report the incident to the police. If someone is following you on foot, remain alert: look behind you, cross the street, ask for help. If you are being followed by car, turn around and walk in the opposite direction. Try to get the license plate number and call the police if the problem persists. If a driver stops to ask directions, do not approach his or her car. Do not worry about appearing rude. When using automatic bank teller machines (ATMs), always be aware of the people around you. Be especially careful if the cash machines are located directly on the street. Try to use machines during the daylight hours. If you are suspicious of any person near the machine, do not use it. Try to have a friend accompany you to ATMs.

 

Public Transportation

If you are traveling by subway, have your token, Metrocard, or money ready before you go into the station. Try to stay near people at all times—pick a car that is occupied by other passengers.

If you are suspicious of anyone, get off the train at the next stop and notify the conductor or a nearby police officer. During non-rush hours, ride in the center of the train near the conductor. Plan your route before you leave. If you’re coming from downtown, remember to change from the express to the local at 96th Street; only the #1 train stops at the 116th Street station. If you do wind up overshooting your stop, ride the train back or take a taxi. Do not walk through Morningside Park. It is safer to travel by bus than by subway late at night. Yellow taxis are the safest— though most expensive—way to travel at night. The Public Safety Department recommends against the use of “gypsy” taxis, but if you choose to use one, make sure you agree on a price with the driver before you begin the trip. When you are dropped off at your destination, have the driver wait for you to enter your building.