Tip of the Month: See Something, Say Something

The Safety Tip of the Month is provided by U.Va.'s Office of Emergency Preparedness on the 11th of every month.

January 11, 2011 — A car is parked on the street at the Corner. There is smoke coming out of it. What do you do?

If you're like the T-shirt vendor in Times Square, you call the police. That simple act saved lives.

"See Something, Say Something" is a national campaign to empower people to watch their own environment for suspicious objects or behavior anywhere and anytime.

This is not just for major cities; our University community benefits from the "See Something, Say Something" mantra. Much like the Let's Get Grounded initiative reminds us, it is our shared responsibility to be attentive to the people and things around us. 

If you see an abandoned backpack or package in an odd place or threatening behavior by an individual, your response should be the same: Say something! Depend on your instincts. If a situation makes you think twice, take action.

If you are near a blue safety phone, push the button and you will talk directly to the University Police. Otherwise dial 911. The highest priority for police officers is the safety of their community. They have your back; trust them. 

For information, contact the Office of Emergency Preparedness at 434-982-0565 or uvaoep@virginia.edu.

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