![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/How_To_Stay_Safe_On_Campus-Lily_Huynh.png\")
<\/p>\n\t\t<\/p>\n
Lily Huynh\/ The Cougar<\/p>\n
Safety remains a top concern for UH students.\u00a0While the University reports the lowest violent crime rate among Texas public universities, the recent campus incidents have led students to question how to stay safe on campus.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Here is an overview of UH safety initiatives and student tips for staying safe:<\/p>\n
UH safety plans<\/p>\n
Since March 2025, UH has added 80 new safety and security personnel to expand security presence, said a University spokesperson. UH has also upgraded and repositioned more than 120 cameras for better monitoring.\u00a0<\/p>\n
The University will add a new UHPD substation near the Welcome Center to make it easier for students and staff to contact officers. The substation will open Jan. 20.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese investments are part of a long-term strategy that has historically kept our violent crime rate significantly lower than our peer institutions and the surrounding city,\u201d the University spokesperson said. \u201cWe will continue to evolve our tactics and technology to ensure that every member of our community feels secure on campus.\u201d<\/p>\n
Tips for safety\u00a0<\/p>\n
Many students emphasized that paying attention to their surroundings is important when walking on campus.<\/p>\n
\u201cI make sure to stay vigilant, not walk alone and walk quickly,\u201d said biotechnology senior Arianna Garza. \u201cWhen I walk alone I make sure I am aware of my surroundings and ready for anything that could happen.\u201d<\/p>\n
While students don\u2019t recommend walking at night, sometimes there is no choice. To feel safer walking at night, students suggest using the buddy system.<\/p>\n
\u201cI usually walk with someone when it\u2019s dark out,\u201d said supply chain and logistics senior Julian Garcia. \u201cWhen I can\u2019t, I always let someone know where I\u2019m going, when I arrive and when I leave.\u201d<\/p>\n
Students often carry pepper spray with them as well. However, it is important to pay attention to UH guidelines as some buildings such as Cullen Performance Hall<\/a> and TDECU Stadium<\/a> don\u2019t allow pepper spray and other self defense tools inside the premises.\u00a0<\/p>\n University safety resources<\/p>\n UH offers Cougar Ride<\/a>, a nighttime transportation service available through the UH Go app. The average wait is seven minutes.\u00a0<\/p>\n For those who feel unsafe walking alone, whether it be night or day, can request a UHPD security escort<\/a>. This service is only for students, faculty and staff traveling on campus.\u00a0<\/p>\n