The following message from public safety director Monica Moll welcomes students, faculty and staff back to campus:
The start of a new academic year is full of possibilities, and we want all Buckeyes to have a safe and enjoyable fall semester.
Ohio State is a safe place, but college campuses are not immune to crime or active threats. Please take a moment to watch our Surviving an Active Aggressor video to learn the Run, Hide, Fight method. In addition, the university recently released an overview of how to secure in place in the event of an active attacker. Watch the video below to learn how to work the various classroom locks and what to do to enhance safety for you and your fellow Buckeyes.
The university launched an online Stay Safe, Buckeyes class available in BuckeyeLearn that covers topics such as crime prevention, how to report a crime, responding to people on the street who aggressively ask for money, self-defense, mental health and more.
Additional safety tips include:
- Avoid walking alone, especially at night.
- Utilize transportation like CABS, CABS On-Demand or Lyft Ride Smart at Ohio State.
- Use Rave Guardian to allow friends or family to track your location as a virtual guardian.
- Always lock doors and windows at home.
- Utilize free safety devices, including window and door alarms, available in the Ohio Union.
- Do not let unknown people into residence halls; make everyone swipe in to gain access.
- Do not leave valuables, keys or key fobs in your vehicle.
- Report suspicious activity, missing or stolen items to police.
Add our number to your contacts. On campus, call The Ohio State University Police Division at 614-292-2121. Off-campus, make reports to local law enforcement such as the Columbus Police (614-645-4545). Always dial 9-1-1 in emergencies. Find more safety resources online or listen to the latest City of Ohio State podcast for a 10-minute rundown on campus safety.
You can follow @OSUPOLICE on Instagram and Twitter. We are here to help so please approach our police or security if you see them on campus to ask questions or seek assistance.
Monica Moll
Director, Department of Public Safety
The Ohio State University