PTS is serious about your safety. The following is a representation of steps we've taken to keep you secure on campus or during your commute.
- The Gopher Way system has security cameras placed in many sections of the system.
- Parking ramps are monitored 24/7 by CCTV security cameras and monitors.
- 82 emergency call buttons are located throughout our parking facilities.
- Fire suppression, alarm systems and fire extinguishers are in all structured facilities.
- Parking attendant booths are equipped with radios or phones for immediate access to UMPD or emergency assistance.
- Parking facilities are kept well-lit and clean by professional, trained maintenance staff.
- In winter, entrances to parking facilities are kept free of snow and ice.
- Field staff is identifiable by uniform or badge.
- Interior surfaces of ramps/garages are painted bright white to increase illumination.
- Emergency generators are on hand for power outages.
- Parking ramps have lobbies with glass windows floor to ceiling.
- Adopted the Helmets and Headlights safety program, giving the University community the opportunity to purchase a helmet and headlight set for the low cost of $20.
- Provide our parking customers with a Motorist Assistance Program (MAP) to assist you with a flat tire, dead battery or if you lock your keys in your car.
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Walkers
- Walk confidently; look ahead and make eye contact.
- Stay aware of your surroundings. Don’t be distracted with electronic devices.
- Wear reflective-colored clothing at night to make you more visible.
- Walk with a friend.
- If you think you are being followed, divert your route to a populated area.
- Trust your instincts. If someone makes you uncomfortable, move away from that person.
- Drivers are required to stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk, but may not. Stay alert for oncoming traffic.
- Never leave any personal belonging unattended.
- Be careful of blind spots, or "No-Zones," around cars, trucks and buses. Always assume the driver does not know you are there.
- Use the FREE Campus Escort Service. Available 24/7 by calling 612-624-WALK (9255).
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Rollerbladers
- Use sidewalks.
- Alert others of your presence.
- Remove skates indoors.
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Bikers
- Never ride on campus sidewalks (unless designated as a bike lane with pavement markings).
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Obey all traffic signs and signals.
- Always ride with traffic. On bike lanes, watch for designated areas to dismount and walk your bike.
- Use headlights and reflectors at night. They are required by Minnesota law.
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Transit Users
- Wait for the bus well back from the road.
- Do not step into the roadway until the bus has stopped and the door has opened.
- Use the handrail when boarding and exiting.
- Cross in front of a bus at least 10 feet ahead so the driver can see you.
- Special areas are designated for elderly customers and those with disabilities. Please surrender these seats when needed.
- Never stick your arms or legs in the doors to prevent them from closing.
- Never put your head, arms or hands out of the window.
- Keep aisles clear of feet, books, bags, etc.
- Allow other passengers to exit before you board.
- Never leave any personal belonging unattended. Carry your valuables inside your garment. Securely clasp your purse or bag.
- Pickpockets often work in tandem. Be aware if you are bumped or squeezed between people.
- Light rail trains are quiet. Listen for bells and horns to alert you to an oncoming train.
- Wait for the train behind the yellow line on the platform.
- Cross tracks only at the ends of the platform.
- Skateboarding, rollerblading and riding bikes on light rail platforms is not permitted.
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Moped/Motor Scooter/Motorcycle Users
- Wear eye protection at all times.
- Wear a helmet. Those under 18 years are required by Minnesota law.
- Do not carry passengers or oversized loads.
- Riders are prohibited from sidewalks, except when necessary for direct access to a roadway from a driveway, alley or building. In those instances, they must be walked, not driven.
- Mopeds/scooters cannot operate in designated bicycle lanes. Mopeds are not allowed on the Washington Avenue Bridge pedestrian level, unless walked across.
- Obey all traffic and speed laws.
- Don’t ride in any area that is restricted to emergency vehicles and buses only.
- Avoid oil spills and wet roadways.
- Drive with your headlights on.
- Wait for pedestrians to clear cross-walks.
- Be alert for opening car doors.
- Take an approved safety course. See the non-profit Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF).
- Do not drink and drive.
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Drivers
- Always wear your seat belt.
- Stay alert to the heavy pedestrian and bicycle traffic around campus.
- Always leave your vehicle with the windows/sunroof closed and the doors locked, even if you will only be gone a short time.
- Put valuables and packages in the trunk before you arrive at your destination.
- Scan the path you walk to and from your car. Check around and inside the vehicle before entering.
- Have your keys in your hand prior to arriving at your car.
- Don’t walk into a parking area if you feel uncomfortable.
- Park in well-lit, visible areas when returning to your vehicle after dark.
- Avoid parking next to large trucks or vans.
- Use caution in enclosed parking garages.
- Lock your door while driving.
- Allow proper space between you and the car in front of you when stopped in traffic.
- Keep your car in good running condition with the gas tank at least a quarter full.
- Stay in your car if it breaks down while on the road. Raise the hood and set your emergency lights. When someone stops to help, ask them through a closed or cracked window to telephone the police for help. Do not get out.
- If you see a motorist in need, get the vehicle’s license plate number and location, then call the police for help.
- If you think something is wrong with your vehicle, are bumped from behind or being followed, pull into the nearest service station or well-lit public area and call the police from there.
- Police emergency lights are red and blue. Do not stop for flashing white headlights alone.
- Never pick up hitchhikers.
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