information

security

The University will obviously try to prevent theft and losses on campus. However, it will not be responsible in the event of losses or theft of property. As with most colleges, particularly those based in cities, DCU has its share of security problems. The work of the University's Security staff would be very much assisted if all University members, students and staff, became more security-conscious. There is no substitute for normal care and vigilance on the part of everyone (see section on Campus Watch).

The following are some points to bear in mind:

  1. If you observe anyone acting suspiciously, either on the campus or in the buildings, you should contact Security on extension 5999 immediately. Alternatively, a polite `can I help you?' can sometimes be useful in letting potential thieves know that this is not the kind of place where one can loiter indefinitely without being challenged (see section on Campus Watch).
  2. Vigilance is particularly necessary with regard to bicycles. All bicycles should be securely locked to the bicycle racks. Unfortunately, however, even this does not ensure that bicycles will not be stolen, as thieves have occasionally cut through chains in the past. Therefore, while a good, stout lock and chain is normally adequate, you are advised to invest in a `Kriptonite'-type lock (large U-shaped padlock). You should also note down the number of the frame of your bicycle, as this can be very useful in the event of theft (see section on Campus Watch).
  3. Be careful with money. In so far as is possible, keep all money with you at all times, and do not carry large sums of money.
  4. Students are advised to take normal precautions regarding personal safety both on and off campus. Students should ensure that, when possible, they are accompanied if they are leaving the campus after dark, and areas which are poorly lit, little-frequented by the public, or away from dwelling-houses, should be avoided when coming to or going from the campus.
  5. Please keep your locker key carefully. Loss of locker keys can, over time, affect the security of the entire locker system. Some people find it useful to attach their bunch of keys to a cord or chain.
  6. Please do not leave any valuables in the changing rooms in the Sports Complex.
  7. As you are not allowed bring brief cases, bags or books into theLibrary please use the cloakroom provided. However, the best place to leave valuables is in your locker.
  8. A simple precaution: write your name and Student I.D No. clearly on all books, calculators, folders and other belongings.
  9. Students who need to take University equipment from the buildings or campus must have permission in writing from the relevant School or Unit. Great care must be taken of all equipment. If equipment is on loan, it must be returned promptly after use. The borrower will be held liable for any damage of loss.
  10. Insurance: it is quite difficult now for students to get insurance cover for bicycles and other belongings. Perhaps the most convenient method of doing this is to get an extension of your family's house insurance policy to cover these items. Please note that this can normally be done even when you are no longer living at home.
  11. Lost Property: all losses should be reported in writing to the Security Control Centre located in the Multi Story car park. Likewise, any articles found should be given into the same office. If you have lost something, please check with the Security both immediately and again after a period of time. One of the biggest problems with lost property is the amount of unclaimed goods, so do check more than once.
  12. Please be particularly careful not to leave any items on top of your locker. All such items are removed daily and put in the Lost Property Office.