With increased activity and more people on campus, the UMKC Police Department urges the campus community to stay alert and follow these important safety tips.

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• If you see something, say something. If you observe suspicious activity on campus, immediately contact the UMKC Police Department at 816-235-1515.
• If you witness a crime: If you can do so safely, write down or memorize the description of the individual or vehicle with details such as: hair style and color, color of complexion, height, weight, clothing description and vehicle information such as make, model, license plate, decals, etc.
• For your safety we do not recommend confrontation with possible suspects.

Catalytic converter thefts have risen nationwide, and trucks, SUVs and hybrid vehicles are at particularly high risk. The theft of catalytic converters only takes a few minutes to achieve.

To help prevent catalytic converter thefts:

• Auto part accessory stores sell theft prevention devices such as CatClamps and CAT Defenders to secure catalytic converters. Under-car alarm systems also are available. A quick online search for “catalytic converter theft prevention” reveals several possible tools.
• The easier it is for police to connect a stolen catalytic converter to a vehicle in a theft report, the better for arrest and prosecution. Catalytic converters have no identifying numbers on them. Mark your catalytic converters by engraving them or using an ultraviolet pen with a personal identification number. You could use the car’s vehicle identification number.
• Have your car alarm calibrated to sound if there is vibration detected.

The UMKC Police Department is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and by phone at 816-235-1515. UMKC Police can also be contacted through the RAVE Guardian Safety App, available free from Apple App Store and Google Play.