The following tips can help reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of a crime on the Provo River trail. We want people to be able to enjoy the trail, and with some safety precautions, we believe it can be used in a safe manner.
• Like any other location, the trail is much safer to use during daylight hours. If you must travel the trail in the dark, make sure you bring a friend and a phone, and be extra cautious. You might also consider bringing a headlamp or flashlight, and a whistle.
• Bring a friend with you on the trail. The larger the group, the less likely they are to become victims of a crime.
• Having a cell phone with you will enable you to report suspicious activity in a timely manner. Program the non-emergency number for the police department into your phone. That number is (801)852-6210. Having a phone available with you may be the difference in whether or not the police are able to catch a suspect. Call 911 in an emergency.
• Be aware of your surroundings, paying particular attention to other people on the trail. If you feel like you are being watched or followed, contact the police immediately. Do the same for other people on the trail if you think they are being watched. Give good descriptions of clothing and physical characteristics. It helps to start at the head and work your way down, noting distinguishing features like hair color and length, facial hair, skin tone, or anything that stands out.
• Children and youth should be supervised while they are on the trail system. The river can be extremely swift at times, and is not a good place for children to wander near, especially if they are unsupervised.
• Try not to wear headphones while on the trail. If you must listen to music while exercising, try to keep it turned down, so that you can hear as someone approaches you from behind. Have the courtesy to announce your approach if you are going to pass someone, speaking especially loudly for those with headphones in their ears. You could say something like, “On your left” or “Coming up behind you” so they know you are near.
• Get to know the trail well, paying attention to landmarks or addresses that can help pinpoint your location. That is one of the first things that dispatch will ask for, should you need to call.
• These tips also apply to men. Crimes occur against both men and women on the trail every year. Whether you are 5’6” or 6’5”, these are sound precautions that can help keep you safe.
• If you notice areas along the trail where you believe there is room for improved visibility or safety measures, contact the Provo City Parks and Recreation Department at (801)852-6600 and ask them to evaluate that area.
We want everyone to feel safe while they are in our city. The Provo River trail is a great resource for our citizens, but we all need to use caution and exercise good judgment while we use it. Please let us know if there are things we can do to help make the trail a safer, more enjoyable place to take in the beauty of our city!
