With increased security measures since the Antinette Keller investigation was reclassified as a homicide investigation, students are encouraged to utilize various NIU transportation services and use personal safety tips when traveling on and off campus.

During the day, NIU offers a Huskie Bus line that transports students who live on and off-campus to various locations. At night, NIU offers the Late Night Ride service.

The Huskie Late Night Ride service extended its hours until further notice from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m., and is available to pick up and drop off individual students or small groups anywhere within the DeKalb vicinity.

“I take the Late Night Ride bus all the time to Walmart, the tattoo parlor and Buffalo Wild Wings,” said De’Anikwa Richmond, freshman sociology major. “It’s just faster.”

These services have been used increasingly within the past week.

“Rides on the Huskie buses have increased by about three times from last Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday to this Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday,” said NIU Police Sgt. Alan Smith.

Students don’t have to be coming or going to late classes to use this Late Night Ride service.

“I don’t really have late classes, but I would call them if I was alone,” said Heather Hancock, freshman education major “I’m more concerned now, but I’m not as scared as others.”

Taking the late night ride is not the only option for concerned students. The NIU Police Department offers 24 hour security escorts and the Huskie Patrol also offers an escort service called a “Walk Safe” escort. Walk Safe escorts are available on the weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.

“I used to walk by myself, not anymore,” said Jordan Arnold, freshman accounting major. She said she usually walks in a large group, or with a friend she trusts.

In addition to using transportation services, students are urged use caution when traveling in or around campus. NIU-approved safety tips are posted in various areas around campus as well as on the school site. The chief amongst those tips states that one should walk confidently, and keep to the busier routes.

“Continue to use the buddy system, walk in well lit areas, and if students have any questions or concerns give us a call,” Smith said.