Here is a list of tips, resources and things to do to keep yourself safe. When deciding if something feels safe or not, trust your instincts. Being familiar with available safety resources will help you respond quickly if you are in danger.

Do these things first:

• Remember the first thing to do in an emergency is to call 911
• Save these important numbers in your phone:
• MSU Police non-emergency phone number 517-355-2221
• MSU OISS phone number: 517-353-1720
• Sign up for MSU Alert to receive notifications of warnings and emergencies by text, phone call, and email
• Update your address, phone number and emergency contacts in StuInfo
• Set up the voice mail system for your phone 
• Make sure your parents and other close family members have your U.S. address and phone number
• Don't give your address, phone number or email address to people you don't know or trust

Personal Safety

• Always lock your doors when you are in and outside of your residence hall or apartment room, even if you are leaving for only a moment.
• Never open your door for strangers.
• Keep your windows locked.
• Always let a friend know if you are going somewhere off-campus.
• Only tell close friends and family your address.
• Don't get into a stranger's car.
• If you are going on a date with someone you don't know, always meet them in a public place rather than going to their home or letting them pick you up in their car.

Relationship and Dating Safety

• Student Health Services provides information and resources about how to maintain healthy relationships, deciding to have sex, having safer sex, choosing a condom brand, abstinence, and pregnancy, among other topics.  
• Condoms are available for free in campus residence halls and at Olin Health Center through the Condom Connxtion program. 
• Sexual assault, rape and relationship violence are taken very seriously in the U.S. and at MSU. MSU is committed to cultivating a safe and inclusive campus community characterized by caring and respect for others. Learn more about MSU's Sexual Assault & Relationship Violence prevention and support programs 

Keep Your Belongings Safe

• While attending MSU, you will be on a campus with over 50,000 students coming in and out of buildings each day. You must take steps to keep your belongings safe. Whether you are living in a residence hall or off-campus, it is important to keep your door locked at all times, even if you are leaving for just a minute. When in a public place such as the library or residence hall lobby, never leave items unattended even for a second.
• If you have a car, remember to lock your doors and do not store valuables in your vehicle. If you must leave something valuable in your car temporarily, store it in the trunk so it is not visible to thieves.
• Use a locking device on your laptop
• If your student ID, driver's license, passport, bank card or credit card is stolen, immediately report the theft to the police. Criminals can use a stolen student ID card to enter MSU buildings and residence halls so it's important to report it immediately.

Watch Out for Scams and Fraud

Some scams target international students and scholars by telephone or email. These criminals pretend to be from the U.S. government, IRS (tax), or other US government-related agency. The callers say that you need to send money due to some problem with your immigration record, taxes, or other issues.

Always remember: U.S. government agencies will NEVER demand money or personal information from you over the phone. If you receive a call or email like this, DO NOT SEND MONEY and report it to local police.

Learn more about how to avoid scams and fraud

Living on campus

Living on campus gives you access to secured buildings, 24/7 staff, MSU police and students who live right next door and on the same floor.

See something. Say something

Always call 911 if you are experiencing or witnessing an emergency or crime. We all play a role in keeping our community safe. If you see something suspicious, report it by calling 911 or texting the MSU Police department at 274637 (CRIMES).

Know what to do in a crisis

• The emergency service line in the United States is 911. Dialing this number from any phone will connect you with police, firefighters, and ambulance.
• You can also use the Emergency Green Phones in your residence hall and throughout campus to be connected to 911 to ask for help
• Go to Ready State for information on how to respond to emergencies, including active violence, fire, and severe weather etc.

Go to MSU Celebrations for more safety information