Students, faculty and staff with 2012-2020 Hyundai and Kia models are encouraged to take steps to prevent break-ins and theft. Across the country, these vehicles are being targeted because their design lacks an engine immobilizer, an electronic security device that makes it more difficult to start a vehicle without a key. The two car companies will provide free steering wheel locks to owners for the rest of the year through the Milwaukee Police Department District 1.

UWM Police, in coordination with MPD, will distribute free steering wheel locks to UWM students, faculty, staff and neighbors near campus. Those seeking a steering wheel lock for their Hyundai or Kia should visit the UWM Police Department, located at the base of West Tower in Sandburg Hall with proof of ownership (license plate or registration). The UWM Police Department can be contacted at 414-229-4627 and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

All UWM students and individuals with these cars should be vigilant and exercise basic precautions. Always be aware of your surroundings and lock your vehicles. To prevent a vehicle theft and reduce the risk of a break-in:

• Lock vehicle doors when you are in the car and away from it
• Take all your valuables — wallets, phones, personal identification, keys, power cords — with you when leaving your vehicle.
• Download the RAVE Guardian App
• Be aware and alert to what is going on around you. Stand tall, walk confidently and make eye contact with those around you.
• Download the UWM Mobile App for easy access to campus safety resources.
• Enter the UWM Police phone numbers into your phone:
  • Non-Emergency Number: 414-229-4627
  • Emergency Number: 414-229-9911
• Report any suspicious activity to UWMPD. If you encounter a break-in or theft in progress, dial 911 immediately and do not approach.

While we advise you to be cautious, UWM is in one of the safest neighborhoods in the City of Milwaukee, located within MPD’s District One and served by the UWM Police Department. A strong network of campus and community resources support all members of the UWM community, making their health and safety a top priority. These resources include:

• Students, faculty and staff are automatically opted-in to UWM’s Safety Awareness for Everyone (S.A.F.E.) Alert system. SAFE Alert allows students, faculty and staff to receive notifications via text message and/or email in the event of campus emergencies.
• A partnership that includes the UWM Police Department, Dean of Students Office, External Relations, Neighborhood Housing & Relations, the Milwaukee Police Department and the Department of Neighborhood Services works together to maintain a safe and vibrant community for students, faculty, staff, alumni, neighbors and visitors.
• UWM sponsors a grant for the Milwaukee Police Department to provide additional patrols in campus neighborhoods during the busiest times of the fall semester. UWM officials and UWM Police communicate regularly with the Milwaukee Police Department.

Students, faculty and staff will continue to receive proactive safety messaging and reminders throughout the year in a variety of ways including e-mail, social media and campus signage. If you observe any suspicious behavior in the UWM area, contact MPD at 414-935-4444 or UWMPD at 414-229-9911.