Sometimes, a student’s college experience is interrupted by an emergency or a crisis situation. To manage such incidents, we have a number of mechanisms in place:
- The University of Pittsburgh Police can be reached at (412) 624-2121. Please contact them with any emergencies or inquiries.
- Students can take an active role in protecting their safety by following the tips outlined on the Police Department's website.
- Also, students are encouraged to sign up for the Emergency Notification System (ENS) upon their arrival on campus.
- If you find yourself experiencing a personal emergency or crisis, contact the University of Pittsburgh Police at (412) 624-2121 or dial 9-11.
Student Resources
Safety Tips
- Off-Campus
-
- Keep your outside doors locked, even when you are home.
- Lock your windows.
- Look outside before opening the door. If you can’t see the area in front of the door, install a magnifying peephole (all you need is a drill and a screwdriver).
- Consider renter’s insurance.
- Never let strangers in the door. If it is a repair or service representative, call the property owner or company to ensure they are supposed to be there. Always insist on identification (a PA driver’s license is the best I.D.).
- Do not trust chain locks alone – they are not strong enough to keep out a determined intruder.
- On-Campus
-
- Leave some lights on when you’re gone.
- Sign up to receive texted crime alerts.
- Don’t advertise your class or work schedule.
- Don’t let strangers or non-residents (unless they’re your personal guest) into residence halls.
- Ridesharing
-
- Plan ahead – Make sure you understand the safety features of the app you are using. Know where you are going to be picked up and exactly where you are being dropped off.
- Request your ride inside
- Remain inside in a safe space while you request and wait for your ride.
- Review the ride information – Review the car’s make, model, color, and license plate.
- Review the driver’s name and photo. If any of these items do match when your ride arrives, do not get into the vehicle.
- Share your trip details with friends – Let your friends know your trip details and when you plan to arrive. When possible, ride with friends.
- Ride in the backseat – When you ride alone, sit in the backseat. This gives you personal space away from the driver and you can exit on either side of the vehicle.
- Do not share personal information – Drivers never need to know your personal information. They can communicate with you in the app if necessary.
- Do not share if you are going to your home address.
- Follow your intuition – Follow your instincts if something feels off.