Personal Safety

Know your limits:

• Understand how much alcohol you can handle without experiencing negative effects such as impaired judgment, memory loss, or risky behaviour.
• Stay hydrated: Alcohol can dehydrate your body, so drink plenty of water alongside alcoholic beverages to prevent dehydration and reduce the severity of hangovers.
• Eat before drinking: Consuming food before drinking can help slow down the absorption of alcohol into your bloodstream, reducing its effects and the risk of intoxication.
• Pace yourself: Avoid binge drinking by spacing out your alcoholic drinks over time. Set a limit for the number of drinks you'll have in a given period and stick to it.
• Avoid peer pressure: Don't feel pressured to drink excessively or participate in drinking games if you're uncomfortable. It's okay to decline and drink at your own pace.
• Plan your transportation: If you're going out drinking, make arrangements for a safe way to get home, such as using public transportation, calling a taxi, or designating a sober driver.
• Monitor your mental health: Alcohol can exacerbate feelings of anxiety, depression, or stress. Be mindful of how alcohol affects your mental well-being and seek support if needed.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on your drink at all times to prevent tampering, spiking or drugging. Stick with trusted friends and look out for each other.
• Seek help if needed: If you're struggling with alcohol consumption or its effects, don't hesitate to reach out for support from the Life Lounge, healthcare professionals, or alcohol support services. There's no shame in asking for help.

Remember that responsible drinking is key to enjoying alcohol safely while minimising its negative impacts on your health, academic performance, and overall wellbeing.

Know the risks:

• Educate yourself about the effects and potential dangers of different drugs, including illegal substances and prescription medications. Understanding the risks can help you make informed decisions about drug use.
• Avoid peer pressure: Don't feel pressured to use drugs if you're uncomfortable or unsure. It's okay to say no and make choices that prioritise your health and wellbeing.
• Stay informed: Keep up to date with current drug trends, risks, and harm reduction strategies. Reliable sources of information include government websites, drug education programs, and healthcare professionals.
• Practice harm reduction: If you choose to use drugs, take steps to minimise harm. This includes using smaller doses, avoiding mixing drugs, staying hydrated, and never using alone.
• Know your limits: Understand how different drugs affect your body and mind. Be aware of your tolerance levels and avoid excessive or risky drug use.
• Seek support: If you're struggling with drug use or its effects, reach out for help. The Life Lounge, healthcare professionals, and drug support organisations can offer guidance, support, and resources for managing drug-related issues.
• Avoid driving under the influence: Never drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence of drugs. Doing so can impair your judgment, coordination, and reaction time, leading to accidents and legal consequences.
• Be cautious with prescription medications: Only use prescription medications as directed by a healthcare professional. Misusing or sharing prescription drugs can be dangerous and illegal.
• Look out for friends: If you notice a friend struggling with drug use or its effects, offer support and encourage them to seek help. Don't hesitate to intervene if someone's health or safety is at risk.
• Know the law: Familiarise yourself with drug-related laws in the UK, including penalties for drug possession, trafficking, and driving under the influence. Ignorance of the law is not a defence.

Remember that drug use carries risks, and prioritising your health and safety is crucial. Making informed choices, seeking support when needed, and looking out for yourself and others can help reduce the harms associated with drug use.

An unhealthy relationship is characterised by behaviours, dynamics, and interactions that are detrimental to the wellbeing and happiness of one or both individuals involved. Here are some signs of an unhealthy relationship:

• Lack of trust: Constant suspicion, jealousy, and lack of trust can indicate an unhealthy relationship. Trust is essential for the foundation of a healthy partnership.
• Controlling behaviour: One partner tries to control the other's actions, decisions, or interactions with others. This can include monitoring their movements, restricting their social interactions, or dictating what they can or cannot do.
• Lack of communication: Communication breakdowns, avoiding important conversations, or dismissing each other's feelings can lead to misunderstandings and resentment.
• Constant conflict: Arguments and disagreements are a normal part of any relationship, but if conflict is frequent, intense, or unresolved, it can indicate deeper issues.
• Emotional abuse: This includes manipulation, insults, belittling, threats, or other behaviours that undermine the other person's self-esteem and emotional well-being.
• Physical violence: Any form of physical aggression or violence, including hitting, pushing, or other forms of physical harm, is unacceptable and indicative of an extremely unhealthy relationship.
• Isolation: One partner isolates the other from friends, family, or support networks, making them dependent on the relationship for validation and support.
• Unequal power dynamics: Power imbalances, where one partner holds more control or influence than the other, can lead to exploitation and coercion.
• Disregard for boundaries: Ignoring or disrespecting each other's boundaries, whether physical, emotional, or personal, can erode trust and lead to feelings of violation.
• Lack of personal growth: In healthy relationships, both partners support each other's personal growth and development. In unhealthy relationships, one or both partners may feel stagnant or inhibited in their personal aspirations and goals.

It's important to recognise these signs and address them early on. Seeking support from trusted friends, family members, or professionals including the Life Lounge can help individuals navigate and potentially improve or exit unhealthy relationships. Remember that everyone deserves to be in a relationship that is built on mutual respect.

Safety is paramount when it comes to student accommodation in the UK. Here are some essential safety tips for students living in rented properties:

• Choose a safe area: Research the neighbourhood before renting a property. Look for areas with low crime rates, good lighting, and proximity to amenities like shops, public transport, and healthcare facilities.
• Check property safety standards: Ensure that the property meets safety regulations and has necessary safety features such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, and fire exits.
• Secure doors and windows: Never leave your room or property insecure, if possible and your tenancy agreement permits, install sturdy locks on all doors and windows to prevent unauthorised access. If you have doors or windows which don’t leak speak with your landlord about these.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms: Regularly test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are functioning correctly. Replace batteries as needed and report any faults to your landlord immediately.
• Keep emergency contacts handy: Save emergency contact numbers, including local police, fire services, and medical services, in your phone and keep them easily accessible in case of an emergency.
• Practice fire safety: Familiarise yourself with the property's fire escape routes and evacuation procedures.
• Maintain electrical safety: Avoid overloading electrical outlets and extension cords and never use damaged or frayed cables. Unplug appliances when not in use and report any electrical issues to your landlord promptly.
• Keep the property clean and clutter-free: Reduce fire hazards by keeping the property clean, tidy, and free from clutter. Avoid blocking fire exits, corridors, or ventilation openings with furniture or belongings.
• Report safety concerns: Report any safety hazards, maintenance issues, or security concerns to your landlord or letting agent as soon as possible. It's their responsibility to address these issues promptly and ensure the property remains safe for occupants.

By following these safety tips and being proactive about property maintenance and security, you can create a safer living environment for yourself and your housemates.

Property marking is an effective way to deter theft and increase the chances of recovering stolen items. Here are some tips for marking your property:

• Use visible marking methods: Use permanent markers, engraving tools, or specialised property marking kits to mark your belongings with your name, postcode, or another unique identifier. Make sure the marking is clearly visible and difficult to remove. Avoid marking over serial numbers or important product information.
• Register your marked items: Register your marked items with a national property registration database such as Immobilise. This can help the Police identify and return stolen property to its rightful owner if recovered.
• Mark high-value items: Focus on marking high-value items such as electronics, bikes, tools, and jewellery. Thieves are more likely to target these items, so marking them can act as a deterrent and aid in recovery if stolen.
• Use multiple marking methods: Consider using multiple marking methods to increase the chances of recovery. For example, you can use a combination of engraving, UV marking, and tamper-resistant labels to mark different items.
• Maintain a record of marked items: Keep a detailed inventory of your marked items, including descriptions, serial numbers, photographs, and the location of the markings. This information can be useful for insurance claims and police reports in the event of theft.
• Display warning signs: Display visible signs or stickers indicating that your property is marked and registered. This can deter potential thieves and make them think twice before targeting your belongings.
• Regularly update your records: Regularly update your property inventory and registration records, especially if you acquire new items or change your contact information. This ensures that your information is up-to-date and accurate in case of theft or loss.
• Report stolen property: If your marked property is stolen, report the theft to the police immediately and provide them with detailed information about the marked items. Notify the relevant property registration database or organisation to flag your stolen items in their database.

By following these property marking tips and taking proactive measures to secure your belongings, you can reduce the risk of theft and increase the likelihood of recovering stolen items in the event of a burglary or robbery.

Reducing the risk of vehicle crime in the UK involves taking proactive measures to protect your vehicle from theft or vandalism. Here are some tips to help minimise the risk:

• Lock your vehicle: Always lock your car doors and close windows when leaving your vehicle unattended, even if it's just for a short period.
• Use security devices: Install additional security devices such as steering wheel locks, wheel clamps, or car alarms to deter potential thieves.
• Park in well-lit areas: Park your vehicle in well-lit, busy areas where there is plenty of foot traffic. Avoid leaving your car in secluded or poorly lit areas where thieves are more likely to operate.
• Use secure parking facilities: Whenever possible, park your car in secure parking facilities such as garages, car parks with CCTV surveillance, or monitored parking lots.
• Hide valuables: Avoid leaving valuables, such as laptops, smartphones, or bags, in plain sight inside your vehicle. Store them in the boot or take them with you to minimise the risk of theft.
• Install a tracking device: Consider installing a GPS tracking device in your vehicle. If your car is stolen, a tracking device can help authorities locate and recover it quickly.
• Secure your number plates: Use theft-resistant number plates or anti-tamper screws to secure your vehicle's number plates. Thieves often steal number plates for use in criminal activities.
• Be vigilant: Stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity or individuals loitering around vehicles to the authorities or property owners.
• Regular maintenance: Keep your vehicle well-maintained to prevent breakdowns or malfunctions that may make it more vulnerable to theft or vandalism.

Regular maintenance: Keep your vehicle well-maintained to prevent breakdowns or malfunctions that may make it more vulnerable to theft or vandalism.

Reducing cycle crime in the UK requires a combination of preventive measures and proactive actions by cyclists to protect their bikes. Here are some strategies to help minimises the risk of cycle theft:

• Use a high-quality lock: Invest in a sturdy and reliable lock, such as a D-lock or heavy-duty chain lock, to secure your bike whenever it's unattended. Lock the frame and wheels to a fixed object, preferably a designated bike rack or sturdy bike stand. The University Bike lockers are allocated on a first come first served basis and used by both staff and students. Your own padlock is required, and bikes are left at the owner’s risk. Please contact facilities@bolton.ac.uk to apply.
• Choose secure parking: Park your bike in well-lit, busy areas with high foot traffic whenever possible. Look for designated bike parking areas equipped with security features such as CCTV cameras or monitored bike storage facilities.
• Register your bike: Register your bike with a national bicycle registration scheme or with your local police department. This can help authorities trace and recover your bike in the event of theft. Immobilise offer a free service to register valuables including bikes.
• Use multiple locking devices: Consider using more than one locking device to secure your bike effectively. For example, combine a D-lock with a cable lock to make it more challenging for thieves to steal your bike.
• Remove valuable accessories: Remove any easily detachable accessories or components, such as lights, saddlebags, or GPS devices, when leaving your bike unattended. Store them securely or take them with you to minimise the risk of theft.
• Stay vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your bike when parking or leaving it unattended. Report any suspicious activity or individuals loitering around bikes to the authorities or property owners.
• Use bike marking and tracking: Consider marking your bike with a unique identifier, such as a tamper-resistant label or engraving your details on the frame. Some cyclists also use GPS tracking devices to locate their bikes if stolen.
• Secure your bike indoors: Whenever possible, store your bike indoors in a secure location, such as a locked garage or bike storage area. This provides an additional layer of protection against theft and vandalism. Please note a lot of Student Accommodation providers will not permit you to store your back within the accommodation due to health and safety.
• Spread awareness: Educate fellow cyclists about the importance of bike security and encourage them to follow preventive measures to protect their bikes from theft.

By implementing these strategies and staying proactive about bike security, cyclists can help reduce the incidence of cycle crime in the UK and safeguard their valuable assets.

Staying safe on a night out is essential for enjoying yourself without putting yourself at risk. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

• Plan your night: Decide on your plans for the evening, including where you're going, how you'll get there, and how you'll return home. Let someone you trust know your plans and when you expect to be back.
• Stay with friends: Stick together with your friends throughout the night, especially when traveling to different venues or leaving the group temporarily. Look out for each other and agree on a meeting point in case you get separated.
• Watch your drinks: Keep an eye on your drinks at all times to prevent tampering or spiking. Avoid accepting drinks from strangers, and if you need to leave your drink unattended, ask a trusted friend to watch it for you.
• Drink responsibly: Pace yourself when drinking alcohol and know your limits. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water to stay hydrated and reduce the risk of overconsumption. Avoid binge drinking, as it can impair your judgment and make you more vulnerable to accidents or harm.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: Be mindful of your environment and trust your instincts if something doesn't feel right. Stay in well-lit and populated areas, especially when walking alone at night. Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas and be cautious of strangers approaching you.
• Use reputable transportation: Arrange safe transportation to and from your destination, whether it's a designated driver, taxi, or public transport. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas late at night, and always use licensed transportation services, Taxis are required by law to display their licence and should have a photo of the driver visible within the taxi.
• Keep valuables secure: Minimise the amount of cash and valuables you carry with you and keep them secure in a zipped pocket or bag. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places and avoid displaying expensive items such as smartphones or jewellery.
• Trust your instincts: If you feel uncomfortable or threatened in any situation, don't hesitate to remove yourself from the environment or seek help from trusted individuals, venue staff, or the Police if necessary.
• Know emergency contact information: Save important contact numbers, including local emergency services, trusted friends or family members, and taxi services, in your phone in case you need assistance during the night.
• Have a backup plan: Be prepared for unexpected situations by having a backup plan in place. Know how to navigate your way home safely and have enough money for transportation or accommodation if your original plans fall through.

By following these safety tips and staying vigilant during your night out, you can reduce the risk of accidents, incidents, or harm and have a more enjoyable experience overall.

Ask, every time!

The University of Bolton Security Team are on campus 24/7 and are here to:

• Minimise, prevent and detect crime and its effect on campus by putting initiatives into place which help to reduce crime on campus.
• Provide a high visibility patrol.
• Monitor a large number of CCTV cameras (including the use of Body Worn Video devices).
• Provide an immediate response in the event of an emergency or other incident on campus.
• Provide support to the Reception Team, if necessary, particularly out of hours by allowing access to the campus and its car parks as required.
• Control access to buildings and other areas.

They can be contacted on 01204 903666

Emergency calls

In an emergency, please telephone 999.

If you are deaf, deafened, hard of hearing or have a speech impairment, a text phone is available on 18000.

You should use these numbers if:

• A crime is happening right now.
• Someone is in immediate danger, or there is a risk of serious damage to property.
• A suspect for a serious crime is nearby.
• There is a traffic collision involving injury or danger to other road users.

Non-emergency calls

For all other calls to the police in England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, please telephone 101.

If you are deaf, deafened, hard of hearing or have a speech impairment, a text phone is available on 18001 101.

You should use these non-emergency numbers to:

• Report a crime not currently in progress - for example a stolen car, burglary, or damaged property.
• Give information to the police about crime in your area.
• Speak to the police about a general enquiry.
• Contact a specific police officer or member of staff.

For other ways to contact the Police please visit the Police.UK website.