The new chief of police for the Purdue University Police Department (PUPD) shares travel tips as another academic year begins at the West Lafayette campus. Chief Lesley Wiete took over her new position earlier this month and she reminds students, faculty, staff and visitors to put safety first while riding streets, sidewalks and bike paths.
“As a 22-year PUPD veteran, I know how busy campus can be during rush hour,” Wiete says. “It is absolutely crucial that those traveling on and around campus, whether by car, on foot, or by motorized vehicle, pay attention to their surroundings and obey all posted signs and signals.”
Wiete asks the campus community to practice the following safety tips:
pedestrians
Walk on the sidewalks. Don’t walk in the driveway, if possible. If there is no sidewalk, use multi-use paths where available. Stay alert at all times. Don’t get distracted by electronic devices. Always use crosswalks, marked mid-block crossings, and intersections where drivers expect pedestrians. Look for vehicles in all directions, including those turning left or right. Comply with pedestrian signals where these safety devices are implemented.
Bicycles, skateboards and electric or motor vehicles (EMPV)
Wear a helmet and bright clothing or reflective gear. Use roadways in accordance with Indiana State Law, West Lafayette City Ordinances, and Purdue University Parking and Traffic Regulations. Use bike lanes or multipurpose roads whenever possible. Obey the signs for bicycles in the places where these security devices are implemented. Stay alert at all times. Do not use cell phones or other mobile devices to talk or text while riding a bike or bicycle. Check your transportation device regularly to make sure it is equipped with working headlights, taillights, and reflectors.
Motor vehicles
Look for pedestrians, bicyclists, skaters, and EMPV operators. Prepare to give in. Learn about state laws related to interactions with pedestrians, bicyclists, skaters, and EMPV operators at intersections and mid-block crossings. Never pass stopped vehicles in a crosswalk or mid-block crossing. Stay alert and slow down where large groups or children may be present, including near college dorms, lunchrooms, apartment complexes, neighborhoods, parks, and recreational areas.
Additionally, students, faculty, and staff who need an escort to and from campus buildings for security reasons can use the Safe Walk program 24 hours a day by calling 765-494-SAFE (7233).
More information about campus transportation is available on Purdue’s bicycle website, under the Riding on Campus tab.
Source: www.purdue.edu