With the semester in full swing, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) asks that you take a few minutes to review some important reminders about how to keep your property safe from theft.
Keep your bicycle and scooter safe
There have been several reports of stolen bikes and scooters on campus since the start of the school year. Please note the following best practices for locking your bicycle or scooter:
Secure Locations: Lock your bike or scooter in well-lit, high-traffic areas.
Proper Fit: Use a sturdy lock and ensure the lock fits snugly around the frame and wheel.
Avoid Obstructions: Avoid locking your bike or scooter near obstacles that could make it easier for thieves to access.
DPS always recommends using a U-bolt type of lock to better secure your bicycle/scooter and deter theft. These locks are available at the Syracuse University Bookstore in the Schine Student Center, as well as at most local retail stores and bicycle shops, and online retailers.
In addition, please consider registering your bicycle and/or scooter with DPS. To do that, complete this form to set up an appointment with an officer. A registration number will be affixed to your bicycle, and that information will be kept on record.
Don’t lose your packages
There has also been an uptick in package thefts on South Campus in recent days. Please note the following important steps you can take to protect your packages from theft:
Protect your packages!
• When ordering from Amazon, consider the option of having the package delivered to a secure Amazon hub instead of your doorstep, especially if it’s a particularly valuable item.
• For packages being delivered via UPS, FedEx or USPS, consider requiring a signature for delivery or arranging to pick the package up from a UPS, FedEx or USPS location.
• Do not have packages delivered to your residence hall, apartment, or home while you are away for an extended period. If you can, schedule the package to be delivered at a day and time when you know you will be home.
• Sign up for the carrier’s text message notifications so you know when a package has been delivered. Retrieve it promptly or ask a roommate to grab it if they will be home when it’s delivered.
• Do not prop open doors, and do not hold secure doors open for strangers. Politely ask them to use their key instead.
• Report suspicious activity to DPS immediately. If you witness a package theft in progress, call DPS and be prepared to provide a description of the person involved if you can.
If you see anything suspicious or to report a crime, please call DPS at 315.443.2224, by dialing #78 (#SU) from your cell phone, or dialing 711 from a campus landline. If you would like to anonymously report NON-EMERGENCY information to DPS, you can use the Silent Witness tool or the Orange Safe app.
The DPS office on Main Campus is located at 005 Sims Hall, and is open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For our DPS Substation at 101 Marshall Street, hours of operation can be found here. You can also speak with Public Safety employees at security desks and other locations around campus.