Commuter Student Guide

Welcome to the University of Texas at Dallas! We understand that as a student who is commuting to campus, you may have different priorities and needs. This handbook addresses specific concerns and offers resources to help you navigate your way to success at UT Dallas. The Road Warrior Commuter Student Program is sponsored by the New Student Programs office. If you are living off-campus, let Road Warriors be part of your off-campus and commuter student experience!

Tips for Commuters

Being a Successful Student Commuter

1. Take advantage of Road Warrior Commuter Student Programs.
2. Keep rush hour in mind when scheduling your classes and extracurricular activities.
3. Have backup routes to school in case there is traffic or construction.
4. If UT Dallas will be closed or have a delayed opening on bad weather days updates will be posted on the UT Dallas homepage.
5. If you live with your family, try to plan some meals with them to save money and stay in touch.
6. If you have friends who live on campus, ask if you can use their refrigerator to store food or use their stove to cook.
7. Have an emergency overnight bag in case bad weather prevents you from driving home.
8. Be active and informed with the UT Dallas community.
9. Connect with other student commuters in your classes/major.
10. Bring clothes and comfortable shoes to change into after presentations, interviews.
11. Get a locker on campus.
12. If you have a break between classes, instead of sleeping in one of the lounges, pass the time more efficiently and make connections on campus. You can attend an event on campus, visit your professors during office hours, or spend time in the Student Union.

Helpful Phone Numbers

Safety on Campus

Campus Alerts and Warning Systems

Mass Notification System

In the event of an emergency or natural disaster, the campus community will be notified as quickly as

possible through several means of communication, including via a campus alert email, the University’s website, campus and local media, text-messaging, building fire alarm or indoor warning systems, and outdoor warning systems. Opt in to UTD Alert.

Safety Awareness

• Keep your car doors locked and windows up, both while traveling and when the vehicle is parked. Check the inside of your car before entering.
• Lock your car doors while driving. Lock your car doors and roll up your windows when leaving your car parked.
• Keep your car in good running condition.
• Accessories such as cell phones, laptops, iPads, iPods etc. are prime targets for thieves. Do not leave items in full view.

Campus Escorts

A walking escort service is available 24 hours a day, year round. A police officer, police guard, Student Patrol Officer or a police explorer will meet you at your location and walk with you to any area on campus. To request an escort, call 972-883-2222.

Emergency Call Stations

Emergency call boxes are bronze in color on the academic portions of campus and blue in the residential areas of campus. All E-Phones have a blue light which illuminates beginning at dusk. E­ Phones are strategically located throughout campus and are designed for use in emergency situations. E-Phones are connected directly to the UT Dallas police communications center. If a call box is activated, a police officer will be dispatched to the location immediately.

Lost and Found

The police department maintains the Lost and Found for the University. Lost and Found items can be dropped off or picked up at the Comet Card Office. To check the status of a lost item, submit a lost and found inquiry.

Vehicle Assistance

Vehicle assistance is offered to individuals who need a battery jump and other help. To request assistance, call 972-883-2222.

VIN Etching

The VIN etching program is a free service where law enforcement etch your vehicle identification number, or VIN, onto each glass window of a vehicle. The process takes about 10 minutes to complete and makes your vehicle less desirable to a car thief. You are also eligible to save up to 10 percent on your comprehensive car insurance premium.

Weather Emergencies, Tornadoes

The Texas tornado season generally lasts from March to May.

• A tornado watch means you should be aware of approaching storms.
• A tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted by storms spotters, radar, or that a tornado is imminent. You should shelter indoors immediately.

Be aware of tornado danger signs, including a dark greenish sky, hail, low-lying clouds or loud roaring sounds.

What to Do in the Event of a Tornado On Campus

• Be aware. Know the severe weather shelter areas on campus.
• In a building, go directly to an enclosed, windowless area on the lowest floor in the center of the building, away from glass, and crouch, covering your head.

En Route

• If outside with no shelter available, take cover in a ditch or on low ground, but be aware of flooding.
  • Do not go under an overpass; it can become a wind tunnel.
  • Never stay in a vehicle or chase a storm. Watch out for flying/falling debris
  • Do not call 911 unless you need to report an emergency.

Flooding/ Flash Floods

Major storms or water main breaks can cause flooding. Flash floods can develop quickly, sometimes in just a few minutes and without any visible signs of rain. Listen for information from media, public safety or facilities. Move to a safe area and assist anyone with special needs, but do not walk through moving water. A foot of water will float most vehicles.

Extreme Heat

Summers are long and hot in Texas, and it is important to take precautions to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Keep a supply of water handy and drink plenty of water even if you do not feel thirsty. Try to stay inside during the warmest hours of the day and limit sun exposure. Protect your face and skin by wearing a hat and light-colored clothing. Muscle pains and spasms are usually the first indicator of heat exhaustion.

Winter Weather

In the event of freezing weather, monitor media for weather and closure information. Be careful if walking during or after a snow or ice storm to avoid personal injury. Keep safe distances while driving.

Vehicle Emergency Kit

For simple roadside assistance, an emergency kit can come in handy. Make sure you have these items in your vehicle in case of an emergency:

• Auto-club card or roadside-assistance number: If you belong to an auto club or roadside­ assistance program, be sure you have the necessary information in your vehicle.
• First-aid kit: Choose one that allows you to treat a range of problems, from small cuts or burns to ones that require major bandaging.
• Flashlight: Choose one that is bright and weatherproof. Also, have extra batteries available.
• Foam tire sealant or a portable compressor and plug kit: For minor punctures, a non­ flammable foam tire sealant can be a temporary fix. Only use it in an emergency. Note that many tire shops will refuse to repair a tire because of the sticky residue these sealants leave behind.
• Gloves, hand cleaner and clean rags: Even simple jobs can get your hands dirty.
• Jack and lug wrench. Almost all vehicles come with these items for changing a tire.
• Jumper cables or a portable battery booster: Jumper cables are easy to use as long as you have a second car available to provide a jump. A portable battery booster eliminates the need for a second car.
• Spare fuses: If you experience an electrical problem, your first check should be for a burned­ out fuse. Keep an assortment on hand of the proper type for your vehicle.
• Tire gauge. It is a good idea to test the tire gauge when a significant change in temperature occurs and during monthly tire checkups.
• Warning light, hazard triangle, or flares: Look for a battery-powered warning light that can be placed far from the vehicle. Reflective hazard triangles and flares are also effective and don’t require batteries.
• Windshield scraper: Good visibility is your most important safety item, but persistent snow and ice can build up quickly and make it hard to see. A long-handled, soft-bristled brush can also come in handy.