Dear colleague,

Following the recent murder of Joanna Yeates, police have put out advice asking members of the public to remain vigilant while they continue to investigate this tragic case.

It is important to stress that the police have made it clear that there is no specific intelligence or information to suggest there is an increased threat to public safety at this time.

However, as many staff and students live in or near the area where Joanna Yeates lived, we thought it important to remind you of some simple, common-sense, personal safety tips:

• Try to take a lift in a taxi or with a friend where possible.
• If you do have to walk, try to do so with others.
• If you have to walk somewhere on your own, stick to well-lit and busy routes where possible and tell someone what time you expect to be home or at your destination.
• Be aware of your surroundings: iPods and personal stereos reduce your perception of what is happening around you.
• Do not be afraid to ring 999 if you feel you are being followed.
• Carry a personal attack alarm. You can get one free of charge from Security Services at Royal Fort Lodge.

If you are likely to leave work after dark, did you know that you can call the Security Services control room on 87848 and request an 'escort to car' service? Alternatively, after 5pm you can move your vehicle closer to your building without incurring a parking fine.

While the above advice is not exhaustive, following it will reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime. But you should also bear in mind that murders and serious assaults are extremely rare, so do please try to carry on as normal as much as possible.

The Avon and Somerset Police website also provides some useful personal safety advice.

Jerry Woods, Head of Security