The Hilltop Safety Cruiser program has gained recognition as the Bradley University Police Department’s largest and most successful crime prevention program since its inception in November 2013, according to BUPD Chief Brian Joschko.
As the Safety Cruiser provides transportation for an average of 180 students, faculty and staff each day, it is important for passengers to understand proper Safety Cruiser use and etiquette.
Daniel Uhlmann, senior criminal justice major
As a Safety Cruiser driver, Daniel Uhlmann said he thinks students are generally respectful of drivers, but there is a misunderstanding of the service.
“The service is there to provide a safe transport across campus, not necessarily a speedy transport,” Uhlmann said. “Drivers are trained to be as efficient as possible by choosing not just the quickest routes but also the safest routes.”
Uhlmann also said some students do not understand they only need to make multiple calls to the Safety Cruiser if they want to cancel their original request for a ride.
“If you have already called for a ride, you do not need to call back to ensure a faster ride,” he said. “If anything, it slows the process down.”
When there are long waits for the vans, Uhlmann said he advises students to take advantage of the walking patrol service.
“This part of the service usually has little to no wait time,” Uhlmann said.
While driving the Safety Cruiser, students are treated to a variety of experiences.
Uhlmann said his most interesting experience as a Safety Cruiser driver was when a passenger tried and failed to have Jimmy Johns delivered to the van.
“I was a little disheartened when he did not ask if I wanted anything,” Uhlmann said.
Rosamaria Lopez, senior criminal justice studies and political science double major
Another driver, Rosamaria Lopez also said there is confusion among students with the use of the service.
“The Cruiser cannot wait for passengers at temporary drop-offs,” Lopez said. “Due to the high volume of calls, the Cruiser is only to be used for final destinations.”
Lopez said the most interesting experience she has had while driving the Safety Cruiser was when an escort entered the van with a giant stack of 12 cooked waffles.
Her job as a driver is not without rewards, as Lopez said students have been so grateful of the service that they have offered her small gifts.
“Students have offered me pizza vouchers, store coupons, brownies and Rivermen tickets as a token of their appreciation,” Lopez said.
Safety Cruiser drivers may never know whether a passenger will bring a fun, funny or anything-but-fun experience, but they can always hope all passengers remember the etiquette tips shared by Uhlmann and Lopez.
