Tips for Maintaining Safety, Wellness, and Privacy at Georgetown University
Georgetown University Enhances Safety Measures for Students and Community
Georgetown University is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students, faculty, and staff. Here's a roundup of the safety resources and precautions available on campus:
Personal Safety
The Georgetown University Police Department (GUPD) and the Capitol Campus Department of Public Safety (CCDPS) work tirelessly to maintain a safe and respectful environment. Resources such as the Run-Hide-Fight Training program, the Georgetown Threat Assessment Program, and the If You See Something... Say Something program are in place to prepare the community for emergencies and respond to concerns about threatening behavior.
Students and staff are encouraged to be vigilant, especially at night, and to avoid walking alone. Security measures also extend to responsible conduct in residential neighborhoods and the careful use of bicycles and scooters.
Securing Property
While specific lock or property security measures aren't detailed, the emphasis on awareness and vigilance is crucial in preventing theft and maintaining safety.
Health and Wellness
Sexual misconduct resources are available for those who need support, offering medical care, safety planning, confidential counseling, and reporting options. The university also provides ongoing health and safety initiatives through the Office of Environmental Health & Safety and the Office of Public Health.
Emergency Preparedness
Georgetown University takes emergency preparedness seriously. The university organizes events during National Preparedness Month and provides updated emergency preparedness information via the Office of Emergency Management (OEM). Emergency contacts include 9-1-1 for off-campus emergencies and direct contact numbers for university safety entities.
The university has hired a new Vice President for Public Safety with FEMA leadership experience, emphasizing integration of safety services, community input on security concerns, and leveraging best practices to enhance security and the perception of safety.
Other Important Information
- The Hoya Ready Preparedness Fair will be held on Thursday, September 25, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Red Square (rain location: Leavey Program Room).
- In case of fire or smoke, leave the building immediately via stairs, do not use elevators.
- Remain outside the building until the "ALL CLEAR" is given by emergency coordinators/marshals, GUPD or CCDPS.
- Information for the Capitol Campus can be found on the CCDPS website.
- Georgetown University has banned lithium-ion-equipped micro-mobility devices from all university-owned and operated buildings.
- AlertDC is the official District of Columbia communications system that allows users to receive emergency alerts, notifications, and updates directly from DC's public safety officials.
- All current students, faculty, and staff are automatically enrolled to receive email and text messages from HOYAlert, Georgetown's mass notification system.
Georgetown University's safety resources form a layered approach to security, emphasizing preparedness, training, supportive services, and responsive policing to foster a secure and healthy environment for the Georgetown community.
[1][3][5] References omitted for brevity.
