While Concordia University is an open and comfortable environment, it’s very easy for students to “take their shoes off” and feel at home when they are on campus. Unfortunately, Concordia is not like home and the risk of theft is present.
For Concordia’s Security Investigator-Preventionist Lyne Denis, it’s important that students start the university year prepared and aware. Her role is to raise awareness on campus about theft, harassment, general safety tips and the services offered by the Security Department. “My goal is to help students feel comfortable with the security team,” explains Denis.
In an interview with Concordia NOW, Denis offers five helpful tips students should know in order to stay safe on campus. Perhaps the most important tip is knowing that the Security Department is available 24-7 — help is only a phone call away.
Tip #1: Don’t let your guard down
“It’s easy for students to become too comfortable and trusting in the library,” says Denis. “Students who leave their valuables unattended are exposing themselves to the risk of theft.”
From her experience touring the libraries, Denis advises students to refrain from asking anyone to watch their belongings because that person cannot be held responsible. She says the best way to avoid theft is to keep your belongings with you at all times.
Tip #2: Sleep and eat well
Over the years, Denis has seen an increase in thefts during exam periods.
“I have seen students who basically move into the library, their labs or a study cubicle and fall asleep with their valuables out in the open, ready for the taking,” she says. When students study hard and become sleep- and food-deprived, they become more vulnerable as they lose focus.
Denis advises students to keep possessions in sight and not to leave their bags or possessions under their desks or seats because they could be easily taken without notice. “Be always on your guard and responsible for your belongings because thieves will take advantage of a student’s most vulnerable moment,” she says.
Tip #3: Have a stress-free workout
When going to exercise at Concordia’s Le Gym, located on the Sir George Williams Campus, bring as few valuables and belongings as possible. Never bring more personal items than necessary. Leave your laptop, cellphone, wallet and bank cards at home.
“I recommend investing a few more dollars and purchasing a stronger lock for your locker. Also never take a locker that’s isolated from traffic,” says Denis.
Tip #4: Be vigilant
Running from class to class, students may feel stressed and become distracted. Denis advises not to read while walking and not to cross the street while listening to music. “I have encountered students who weren’t paying attention when crossing the street and they had near-collisions with cyclists,” explains Denis.
Tip #5: Help is always available
Concordia’s Security Department is open 24-7 on both campuses. Security agents are available and on-call at any moment to assist students, faculty and staff.
“If it’s late at night and a student, faculty member or staff member does not want to walk alone to their vehicle, an agent will accompany the individual. If a student or faculty member has any medical issues or is otherwise impaired, a security agent will be on-site to offer assistance,” she says.
Being aware and responsible is more than half the battle to prevent a theft or a dangerous situation. Denis urges students to approach security agents with any questions or requests.
Handy telephone numbers
Security: 514-848-3717 (a free call from any payphone on campus)
Dial 1 for urgent situations
Dial 2 for non-urgent situations
The Security Department can also be contacted using the emergency phones in every building. There are 62 of the bright red boxes at Loyola Campus and 148 on the Sir George Williams Campus. Installation of another five emergency phones is under consideration.
David Adelman is a journalism student and summer intern for Concordia’s University Communications Services.
Related link:
• Concordia Security Department
