Dear Students,
I would like to welcome all of you back for what is sure to be a great spring semester. While I understand you will be receiving many emails pertaining to your academics, please take a few minutes to read this important email regarding your safety and well-being.
The issue of your safety on and around campus is always of concern for us. Since 2006, the UMD College Park Campus has seen a continual decrease in violent crime both on and off campus. To continue this trend I am asking that you take to heart these very important safety tips.
- Before you leave your residence or go to sleep for the night, check to be sure that all windows and doors are locked.
- Stay alert and attuned to people and circumstances around you - electronic devices that block your hearing or split your attention make it difficult for you to remain vigilant.
- Avoid isolation. After dark, walk with others and use well-lit paths. Department of Public Safety escort services are available 24/7 at 301-405-3555.
- If you feel you are being followed, contact the police immediately. Prevent people from tailgating into the building by ensuring the door closes as soon as possible after you enter.
- If you observe suspicious behavior, report it to police immediately by dialing 301-405-3555 or #3333 from a mobile device.
- Note the locations of the Blue Light Emergency Phones and look for them as you walk.
- Register for emergency text alerts at alert.umd.edu.
- Follow @UMPD on Twitter for information updates.
- Download the M-Urgency safety app available for IOS and Android devices. Visit m-urgency.umd.edu for additional information and instructions.
Important Safety Resources
University of Maryland Police
- Follow @UMPD on Twitter for information on incidents and events or visit our Facebook page
- Public Safety blog site at blog.umpd.umd.edu
- UMD Alerts: Register for emergency text alerts and crime warning emails at alert.umd.edu.
- UMDPS website: www.umdps.umd.edu (contains daily incident logs)
- EMERGENCY NUMBERS: 911 from any phone, 301-405-3333 or #3333 (from mobile device)
Prince George’s County Police
- 911 from mobile or landline phone
- Non-Emergency Number: 301-352-1200
- Follow @PGPDNEWS on Twitter for information on incidents and events in Prince George's County
While we always do our best to keep you safe, we hope that you can take the first step in keeping yourself out of danger. I hope this information serves as a reminder of what you can do to reduce your chance of being the victim of a crime and to help you remain safe during the school year. I am happy to answer any questions our concerns you have throughout the year. Please feel free to contact me at chief@umpd.umd.edu. I wish you a very successful semester. Be safe and GO TERPS!
Stay safe,
Chief David Mitchell