Fall can be a busy time on the University of Delaware campus, particularly with Homecoming celebrations and Halloween festivities increasing campus activity this month. No matter the season, the charge of the University of Delaware Police remains constant: to protect and serve the entire UD community 24/7.

“Our Police Department works to create an environment where people can feel safe, whether they are students, faculty, staff or visitors,” said UD Police Chief Pat Ogden. “While reported crime is relatively low on the campus, it is important to remember that we are not immune from criminal activity, which exists everywhere. We need everyone to be active partners in their own safety.”

Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, the UD Police Department provides thorough, progressive training to its officers. There are currently more than 500 surveillance cameras at locations throughout the campus that are monitored 24/7, and approximately 600 blue light emergency phones, which connect the caller directly with UD Police, are placed strategically throughout the campus.

“In addition to our department’s proactive work, members of the campus community have several resources available to them to help assure their own personal safety,” Ogden said.

Resources for your safety

LiveSafe, a smartphone safety app, facilitates communication between the campus community and UD Police by using key components of smartphone technology, including GPS-location, camera and text capabilities. For information on how to download the app, visit the UD Police website.  

With the LiveSafe app, you can

• submit tips to UD Police via text, picture and video,

• engage in live chat with safety officials,

• have fast access to emergency phone numbers,

• access a comprehensive safety map that pinpoints incidents on or near campus,

• activate peer-to-peer location monitoring with a group chat feature, and

• receive important notifications by text from UD Police.

The UD Police Department also offers a free walking escort service after dark for students, staff and faculty to or from any University property or contiguous street and specific areas off campus that immediately border the Late Bird bus route. To arrange for an escort, call 302-831-2222, use the LiveSafe app or use one of the blue light emergency phones located throughout the campus.

In addition, the UD Police Department recommends the following good safety habits:

• Show a confident attitude and be alert and aware of your surroundings. Follow common sense safety precautions at all times;

• Avoid walking alone at night. Walk with a group, ride a UD shuttle bus or call (302) 831-2222 for a walking escort;

• Use crosswalks and pedestrian crossing signals to cross streets;

• Do not walk on or alongside railroad tracks, and only cross at designated sites, observing the warning signals;

• Report all suspicious activity by calling 911 from on or off campus; and

• Keep informed.

For more information on UD Police, call visit the department’s website or call 302-831-2222.