To keep from falling victim to crimes, students need to follow their instincts and use common sense while walking around campus at night.

NIU emergency call boxes have been in place for many years, and when utilized, they serve as a good safety device. But crimes don’t necessarily occur near the boxes.

“The call boxes are effective if used, but very few calls are usually generated from them,” said University Police Sgt. Albert Ekstrom.

Students also should make sure only to accept rides from people they know and trust.

NIU’s late night ride service, which is available Thursday through Saturday from 2 to 6 a.m., offers an alternative to late-night walking.

“The late night ride service provides extra insurance for students and others on campus,” Ekstrom said.

When walking anywhere after dark, students should be sure to walk purposefully, look confident and always be aware of their surroundings. Students also should make sure they have someone to walk with at all times.

“I really don’t like to walk alone at night, so I usually try to find someone in one of my classes to walk back to the dorms with me,” freshman undecided major Katie Langten said.

For students who do choose to walk at night, the Huskie Patrol operates Monday through Friday from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.

“It’s nice to know that these students are working on the streets to check buildings and locks and also as extra manpower for the police department,” said Ekstrom.

Ekstrom thinks people who see a crime in progress should use their discretion on whether or not to intervene. Regardless of whether people do or do not get involved, they should always report the crime, but use 911 only for emergencies.

“Intervention is always going to be the choice of the person,” Ekstrom said. “But no matter what, they should always report the crime.”