As the seasons turn to winter, holiday shopping picks up and it gets darker earlier, keeping safety in mind is essential.

Kiel Pepper, director of safety and security at Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City, said new lighting and additional security measures will help with on-campus safety.   

“Over the past few months, we have added several light poles around campus and have upgraded existing lights to enhance safety during dark hours on campus,” Pepper said. “Various parking lots around campus have been repainted and signs have been added to indicate the posted speed limit on campus.”

In addition, safety bollards were added in areas around the main campus to enhance the safety of students, faculty and staff while walking. Security officers will make routine campuswide patrols during the winter months to monitor parking lots and building statuses.

“Officers routinely check the buildings 24/7 for any issues such as heating/cooling issues, water and gas line integrity, and other infrastructure issues that may need to be addressed,” Pepper said. 

As it gets colder, Pepper shared several tips to keep yourself safe. 

Weather-Related Safety

1. Dress Appropriately: Wear layers, a waterproof outer layer, gloves, a head covering and shoes with good traction to prevent slips on icy surfaces.
2. Check Weather Alerts: Keep track of weather forecasts and sign up for campus alerts to stay informed about closures or hazardous conditions.
3. Emergency Supplies: Carry items like a flashlight, phone charger, hand warmers and snacks in your bag in case of unexpected delays or emergencies.

Travel and Transportation

1. Plan Your Routes: Use well-lit, maintained paths, especially after dark. Avoid shortcuts through isolated areas.
2. Drive Safely: If you have a car, ensure it's winter-ready with good tires, a full gas tank and an emergency kit. Drive cautiously on icy roads.
3. Call If You Need Help: If you become stranded or need assistance, do not hesitate to call for help, whether it be OSU-OKC Security on campus or other emergency services while off campus.

Personal Safety

1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Avoid distractions like headphones or texting when walking. Stay alert to your environment.
2. Travel in Groups: Walk with friends, especially at night, to reduce risks and increase visibility.
3. Carry Safety Tools: Consider having a whistle, pepper spray, or personal alarm if permitted on campus.

Health and Wellness

1. Prevent Falls: Walk carefully on icy or snowy surfaces, taking small steps and using handrails when available.
2. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Cold weather can be dehydrating. Drink water and eat regularly to maintain energy.
3. Know the Symptoms of Hypothermia: Watch for warning signs like shivering, confusion and slurred speech, and seek shelter immediately if they occur.

Emergency Preparedness

1. Know Campus Resources: Familiarize yourself with the location of emergency call boxes, campus security contacts and designated safe spaces.
2. Keep Emergency Contacts Handy: Save the numbers for campus security, local police and a trusted friend or family member.
3. Download Safety Apps: Use campus-sponsored or public safety apps that provide real-time assistance or alerts.
4. Report Hazards: Notify campus facilities management about icy sidewalks, broken lights, or other safety issues.

While there is overlap in staying safe while going to class and running errands like holiday shopping, Pepper shared some additional tips if you’re making gift purchases this season, including some tips to help keep you safe online. 

Online Shopping Safety

1. Use Secure Websites: Ensure the website URL starts with "https://" and avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi networks.
2. Monitor Bank Statements: Regularly check your accounts for unauthorized transactions and set up alerts for unusual activity.
3. Beware of Scams: Avoid deals that seem too good to be true, and be cautious with links sent via email or social media.
4. Use Strong Passwords: Use unique, complex passwords for online store accounts and enable two-factor authentication where available.

Protecting Your Purchases

1. Carry Bags Discreetly: Avoid carrying multiple shopping bags that signal you’ve made high-value purchases.
2. Keep Receipts Separate: If your bags are stolen, separate receipts can help with returns or police reports.
3. Use RFID-Blocking Wallets: Protect against electronic pickpocketing by using RFID-blocking materials for credit cards.

Crowd Safety

1. Avoid Peak Hours: Shop early in the day or during weekdays to avoid large crowds.
2. Have an Exit Strategy: Familiarize yourself with store layouts and exits in case of emergencies.
3. Stay Calm: In the event of a crowd surge or incident, avoid panicking and follow instructions from store personnel.

Child Safety

1. Teach Kids About Strangers: If shopping with children, remind them not to talk to strangers or wander off.
2. Establish a Meeting Spot: Agree on a safe location to regroup in case you get separated.
3. Keep ID with Them: Have children carry a card with their name, your phone number and emergency contacts.

General Tips

1. Set a Budget: Prevent overspending or financial stress by planning your purchases.
2. Avoid Flash Cash: Use cards or mobile payment methods instead of carrying large amounts of cash.
3. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or unsafe, leave the area and report suspicious activity to store security or local authorities. 

Even once you’re home, stay aware of safety. At night, leave exterior lights on at your residence to prevent hiding spots.

Don’t advertise what’s in your home — especially with electronics; break down boxes before putting them out. In recent robberies targeting NFL players and other sports figures, alarm systems were mostly not active.

In an NBA memo reported on by The Athletic, the robberies of sports figures have focused on empty homes with no dogs and no alarms turned on.

“The FBI reported that, in most of the incidents, the homes were equipped with alarm systems that were not activated,” the NBA memo said. “The FBI also reported that the homes were all unoccupied and, in most cases, no dogs were present.”

Referring to cameras and security systems, Pepper agreed it’s only as helpful as you make it. 

“If you have technology in your home, make sure you use it,” he said.