Personal safety tips; counseling and support services

The University of Wisconsin–Madison Police Department is adding extra
patrols and asking for vigilance in the wake of the death of a young
woman in the 500 block of West Doty Street in downtown Madison.

The Madison Police Department is investigating the death and has identified the victim as UW–Madison student Brittany Sue Zimmermann.

Dean of Students Lori Berquam is urging all students to pay close attention to personal safety.

If you are a student interested in crisis support as a result of this, or any other situation, call University Health Services Counseling and Consultation Services’ 24-hour crisis line, (608) 265-5600, or the Offices of the Dean of Students, (608) 263-5700.

If you are a faculty or staff member in need of counseling, the Employee Assistance Office can be reached at (608) 263-2987.

If you have any information about this case, please call Crime Stoppers at (608) 266-6014.

Students are encouraged to follow these safety guidelines:

• Carry a cell phone and dial 911 for help.
• Walk with a friend whenever possible.
• Lock your doors at all times, even if you are awake.
• Never let anyone you don’t know into your building.
• Report
  any crime or suspicion of a crime immediately, starting with your
  location. If police are contacted within the first five minutes, they
  have a better chance of finding a suspect.
• Take advantage of UW–Madison SAFEwalk and SAFEride programs available on campus. Call (608) 262-5000 for detailed information.
• Keep your head up. Do not look down or away. Make brief eye contact with all people you meet.
• Use public walkways and avoid isolated shortcuts where you have limited escape routes.
• Be
  aware of places along your path of travel that could conceal a criminal
  (shrubbery, building recesses, etc.). Avoid or keep a distance from
  these areas whenever possible.
• Make sure someone knows when you leave and when to expect you back.
• If you think someone is following you, cross the street. Head for a well-populated and well-lit area at night.