The UPD team is honored to serve the Bobcat Community. With us as your partners in safety, students can take these five steps to stay safe.
1. Keep Entry Doors and Bedroom Doors Locked
All residence halls are equipped with Bobcat Card access at entry doors for residents, and each room is provided a hard key for residents of that space.
Follow best practices for keeping doors locked:
- Even if you only leave for a minute, be sure to lock your door behind you.
- Lock your door as you enter your space.
- Do not hold doors open for others. Ensure those behind you scan their Bobcat Card for entry.
- Do not prop open any entry, exit, or bedroom doors.
- Copying or sharing of keys is prohibited by Housing and Residential Life policy.
- Locked out? Contact the Residence Hall Night Desk at: 512.245.3337
- Lost your key? Be sure to report your lost key to your residence hall's front desk for lock and key replacement.
2. Keep Valuables in a Safe Space
Each hall has a lockable pedestal or wardrobe for the safe keeping of valuable items. Residents are responsible for providing their own locks and ensuring they are secured.
Follow best practices for storing valuables:
- Never leave valuables or money in plain sight.
- Document the serial number of items such as laptops, gaming consoles, and other electronic devices.
- If storing important documents such as a passport, be sure to keep them in a secure location such as a safe or lockable spaces.
3. Stay Alert, Use Good Judgement, & Trust Your Instincts
Trusting your instincts and staying alert to your surroundings is key in ensuring safety across campus. In case of an emergency, always dial 911.
Being prepared with the tools to ensure a safe campus are important. To report a crime, know how to act on your instincts, and get connected with safety resources anywhere on campus view the information below:
- Sign up for TXState Alert Messages: The TXState Alert system, managed by UPD, notifies members of the university community about emergency situations, including hazardous weather.
- Blue-light Emergency Call Boxes: Trust your gut. If you feel unsafe, utilize the blue light boxes. Located at key points across campus, these emergency call boxes will connect you directly with UPD by pressing the red button.
- Report a Crime Anonymously: If you see something, say something. Utilize this form to submit an anonymous tip to University Police.
- Connect with University Police Programs and Services: View upcoming events including safety training classes, learn about specialized services and more.
- Utilize Code Maroon Rides in case of emergency: This free 24/7 emergency ride system for students. Please note that this service is intended for special situations where you feel unsafe and should not be used as a substitute for regular forms of transportation.
4. Engage with University Police Services
UPD is dedicated to building trust, fostering open communication, and collaborating with the Bobcat Community to enhance safety and well-being across campuses.
Keep an eye on the UPD Community Engagement Calendar for upcoming events.
Review items posted to the UPD Lost and Found page.