As a UT Martin student, you have probably come across a time where you were out late at night on campus. Maybe you had been out with friends or perhaps with a study group at the library. No matter where you were or what you were doing, walking across campus at night can be rather unsettling. Thankfully, the UTM Department of Public Safety has plenty of tips to keep everyone safe.
Monte Belew, director of Public Safety at UT Martin, has worked with the university for a little more than a year, but has been involved with law enforcement for quite some time. An alumnus of UT Martin himself, Belew graduated with a degree in criminal justice, then went on to work for Jackson Police Department, became a Tennessee state trooper and then in 2006, became sheriff of Henry County. He stayed there for 14 years before coming to Martin. Belew enjoys working in a college setting because he “loves the excitement of a college campus.”
As far as overall campus safety, Belew says that the UT Martin campus is secure.
“The biggest thing is we have a very safe campus and very safe county and safe city,” Belew says.
Though the UT Martin campus is well protected and has a low crime rate, that does not mean crime is impossible. Belew advises students to follow standard safety protocols just to be on the safe side.
“Be very mindful and follow your gut instinct,” Belew says.
Belew also urges students to think about the consequences of their actions before they go through with plans. He says that students should consider whether it is safer to walk across campus at 2 p.m. or 2 a.m. He is a firm believer in trying to prevent students from putting themselves in dangerous situations.
However, Belew understands that sometimes being out late at night is unavoidable. It is in these cases that he recommends students utilize these tips to keep themselves safe.
First, Belew urges students to download the LiveSafe App on their phones or devices.
“The app is something you can download, and you can interact with Department of Public Safety and let us know about a pothole that needs fixing or a suspicious person. It also has an interactive virtual escort you can use when walking across campus. It also has safety advice that are good tips to follow,” Belew says.
Here’s how the virtual escort works: one night you are walking from the Paul Meek Library to your dorm in Ellington. You input how long the trip should take and start it. If you aren’t back by the time the estimated trip ends, the app will alert campus security and your contacts, so they can make sure everything is all right. This app is beneficial for anyone, but especially those who often must make trips at night alone.
Additionally, for those who must be out at night alone, Belew recommends pepper spray. Tasers, knives and other weaponry are prohibited on campus, but he says that holding a key between your thumb and index finger can work as a weapon if necessary. Your keys are almost always with you, so this makes them a rather convenient weapon as well.
Finally, Belew stresses the importance of contacting public safety for an escort. However, he is not the only one to suggest getting a campus escort. With a little translating help from Belew, Morton, UT Martin’s therapy dog, voices his opinion as well.
“Morton says call for an escort. You never know, he might show up to be the one to escort ya!”
If you ever need an escort or have any concerns regarding campus safety, you can call 731-881-7777.
