NOVA works hard to ensure the safety of all individuals within the College community. However, students and employees must take ultimate responsibility for their own safety and that of their personal belongings.

Common sense precautions can be the most effective means of maintaining personal security. Here are some practical suggestions:

• Remain alert, pay attention to your surroundings; avoid listening to musical devices such as an iPod to make it more difficult to be taken by surprise. 
• Although the campuses are considered safe, students and staff are encouraged to walk in pairs or groups after dark. If there are extenuating circumstances, students may request a police escort.
• Utilize the lighted paths and sidewalks on campus; avoid walking in the wooded areas where you cannot be seen.
• Get to know the location of the Emergency Call Boxes on campus.
• Valuable personal property should not be brought on campus. If you choose to bring valuable property with you on campus, keep it with you at all times. If possible, engrave it with your social security number. The College is not responsible for the loss of personal property.
• Carry only the credit cards and cash you need for the day.
• Cars should be parked in lighted areas and all valuable items should be locked in the trunk.
• Students and employees should not leave personal items unattended. Books, book bags, backpacks, electronic equipment and purses are targets for theft.
• Notify the campus police or a member of the college staff of any individual present on campus who appears to have not legitimate business there or who arouses suspicion in any way.
• Know the phone number of the campus police. Consider programming it in your cell phone. Remember, in an emergency call 911.

All members of our College community must work together, as NOVA continues to strive to provide an environment in which students, employees and visitors can all feel safe and secure.