Safety is top of mind as we begin another academic year. Ohio State is committed to supporting a safe and inclusive campus. Our team from the Department of Public Safety includes a police division, non-sworn security officers, an emergency dispatch center and many layers of security technology. We also have important partnerships with local law enforcement agencies like the Columbus Division of Police which help us extend safety resources into off-campus neighborhoods.
This year, we’ve expanded our Columbus joint patrol program to include three OSUPD officers working full-time to patrol the University District while partnered with CPD officers. This initiative is part of a comprehensive approach that includes improved lighting, additional surveillance cameras and license plate readers and expanded non-police security patrols that bring university resources into the areas where many of our students live.
We all have a role in creating and supporting a safe and welcoming campus, so please do your part by locking doors and windows at home and securing motor vehicles, traveling in groups, and paying attention to your surroundings to enhance the safety of all Buckeyes.
If you see something suspicious, say something. Report crimes or suspicious behavior happening on campus to University Police by calling 614-292-2121. Off-campus, call CPD in Columbus at 614-645-4545, or the appropriate local law enforcement agency. Always dial 9-1-1 in emergencies.
Ohio State offers many safety tools and resources, such as:
Community Crime Map – The Community Crime Map consists of CPD’s statistics and shows off-campus crime reports. Ohio State has pre-programmed the map to a one-mile radius to include the crime reports from the most recent 7-day period. You can also sign up to receive daily emails that link you right to the crime map showing the most recent reported incidents. (More)
Lyft Ride Smart at Ohio State – Lyft Ride Smart at Ohio State offers eligible students discounted rides, on and around Columbus campus, from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. (More)
Rave Guardian – The free Rave Guardian app allows users to select friends or family to follow them via GPS tracking as they travel on and around campus. The app serves as a virtual guardian with a timer based on your destination. (More)
Free Safety Devices – Students can obtain free personal safety devices, window and door alarms and light timers to increase their personal and home security. Deterrence tools can play a big role in helping to prevent crimes. (More)
Stay Safe, Buckeyes Online Class – The one-hour, video-based module is available in BuckeyeLearn and covers topics such as crime prevention, crime reporting, responding to people on the street who aggressively ask for money and more. (More)
Surviving an Active Aggressor Video – We encourage everyone to watch this educational video that teaches the run, hide, fight method. (More)
You can visit the Department of Public Safety website to see a full list of safety classes and resources.