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  5. Vehicle Assistance

Vehicle Assistance

Public Safety and Service can assist car owners with problems that typically occur.

Jump-starting vehicles

Is your car battery dead? The department has booster pacs so we can to assist community members and visitors with dead batteries without the use of another car.

Pushing or towing cars

Public Safety and Service officers can not push, pull or tow vehicles that are stuck in snow or mud. However, our staff would be happy to assist you in contacting towing services.

Shoveling out cars

During the winter months, Facilities Management supplies shovels and leaves them at residence halls and houses on campus. Shovels can also be borrowed on a first-come, first-serve basis at Public Safety and Service. If you are stuck to the point where you are unable to shovel yourself out, please call Facilities Management to see if they are able to assist you.

Tips to avoid car trouble

  • Have your car serviced regularly.
  • Before winter arrives, check your battery and tires, and have all the fluids in your vehicle checked. If your vehicle needs a tune-up, you may want to consider having one done before the weather starts to get cold.
  • Always check to that you have turned off your headlights every time you get out of your car.
  • Park your car legally; this will prevent the frustration that comes along with getting a parking ticket on top of worrying about your car's health.
  • Pay attention to the weather in the winter; Facilities Management makes every effort to clear spaces of snow, but your assistance in moving your car according to the Snow Regulations listed in the Colleges Parking Regulations, or when requested, makes it easier on all concerned and will prevent your car from being "plowed in".
  • Be sure to carry an emergency road kit in your vehicle, including a flashlight, flares, basic tools, and the like. Also be sure to keep antifreeze, water, oil and other fluids in your car in case of an emergency.
  • In the winter, keep some road salt or sand in the trunk of your vehicles. Sand and salt will not only give your car more traction, but will also be useful if you get stuck.
  • Start your car regularly and move it periodically, especially during the winter months. This will increase the likelihood of it starting when you need it. In addition, this may decrease the chances of it being stolen or broken into. If it is stolen or broken into, you will discover it sooner and be able to report it earlier, thus increasing the chances of the car and/or your belongings being recovered.
  • Keep your gas tank full, especially during the winter.