°Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï

As the daylight hours decrease, you may find yourself walking home from class, biking to work or heading to an evening event after dark. Fall also brings changing weather and more wildlife activity in °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï.Ìý

A few small changes can help you stay visible, get around safely and prepare for changing fall conditions.ÌýÌý

1. Get around safely after darkÌý

Earlier sunsets mean more of your daily trips may happen after dark. Whether you’re walking, biking or heading home from a late class or work shift, plan ahead:Ìý

• Use crosswalks and wait for the walk signal before crossing.Ìý

• Don’t assume drivers see you. Make sure vehicles have stopped before you cross.Ìý

• If you’re walking where there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic so you can see approaching vehicles.Ìý

• Wear light-colored or reflective clothing and consider carrying a flashlight or using your phone light to help you see and be seen.Ìý

• If you bike at night, use a front light and rear red reflector as required by °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï law. Review more biking tips for getting around campus and °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï.Ìý

Need a ride? CU NightRide provides free evening transportation for CU °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï students, faculty and staff within °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï city limits.Ìý

2. Keep your home secureÌý

As it gets dark earlier, a few simple habits can help keep your home and belongings secure.Ìý

Turn on exterior lights when it gets dark, and remember to lock doors, accessible windows and vehicles—even when you’re only leaving for a short time. If you live with roommates, make sure everyone knows how to secure shared doors, garages and other entrances.Ìý

If someone arrives for maintenance or a property tour and you weren’t expecting them, don’t let them in. Contact your landlord or property manager to confirm the visit. Landlords should provide reasonable notice before maintenance workers or future tenants visit your rental.Ìý

Off-Campus Life has more information about living in °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï, including local ordinances and resources for renters.Ìý

3. Be bear awareÌý

Bears are especially active in the fall as they look for food before winter. If you live on or near the Hill or anywhere west of Broadway, you can help prevent bears from finding food around your home.Ìý

• Never feed bears or leave food outside for wildlife.Ìý

• Secure your trash and compost. If you live in an area where bear-resistant containers are required, make sure yours is properly closed and secured.Ìý

• Keep accessible doors and windows closed, including garage and vehicle doors.Ìý

• Don’t leave food, wrappers, pet food or other scented items where bears can reach them.Ìý

If you encounter a bear, stay calm, give it space and make sure it has a clear way to leave. Never approach a bear or its cubs.Ìý

Learn more about °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï’s .Ìý

4. Plan ahead for fall outdoor activitiesÌý

Fall can be a great time to hike, bike, climb and spend time outdoors, but shorter days and changing weather require some extra planning.Ìý

Start outdoor activities earlier than you would during the summer so you have plenty of daylight. Before you leave, check the weather, tell someone where you’re going and bring layers for changing temperatures. Keep your phone charged and with you in case of an emergency.Ìý

Weather can change quickly in °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï and at higher elevations, including the possibility of early-season snow. Fall can also bring wildfire risk, so check and follow current before heading out.Ìý

Review more tips for hiking around °Ç¸ç³Ô¹Ï before your next adventure.Ìý